I am a total animal nut with big dreams to have my own dog psychology centre where I rescue and rehabilitate dogs! So I got 2 brilliant books by Cesar Millan, Dog Whisperer, and started learning his techniques and some dog psychology. I then set out to find a place where I could volunteer my services, practice my rehabilitation skills so that the dogs will be more easily rehomed and to pass on my bit of knowledge to help our favourite canine companions. But oh.... no no... no.....! "We are not currently recruiting volunteers at this time, your money is always welcome, but your time and knowledge are of no use.” Well that’s how I see it anyway! It infuriated me no end, that there wasn’t even a place where I could leave my email address for when there was availability. I searched the web sites of all the homes I could find that weren’t hours outside London and I either couldn’t find anything relating to volunteers or they weren’t recruiting. But first and foremost I can see where I can pledge my monetary donation.

A friend of a friend was also turned away when she offered to help the elderly - cooking meals, etc. Apparently because there are 'health and safety' issues. Needless to say her time and good heart are not being put to use, spreading joy or happiness.

Why is it so hard to put our time and skills to good use? Why is there all this unnecessary bureaucracy? It’s charity. Or is it? Why is it so difficult to be good and so easy to be bad?

Saxon-Dale Sunderland