Wat onze vrijwilligers zeggen

When we first arrived, we were welcomed by the sound of many barking dogs. It was a little overwhelming at first, but after letting Verity know we had arrived, she came over quickly and reassured us, encouraging us to sit down, move slowly, and give the dogs time to adjust to the new people in their space. Most of the dogs at headrocks are able to move freely around the yard. Others (like the very old or disabled dogs) are kept in separate fenced spaces and are let out at specific times with supervision.  

For the first few hours on our first day, we just sat, petted the dogs, and allowed them to sniff us. Daeng, Sirranee, Tik and Tok were some of first to greet us, eager for some pats. 

Others are a little more cautious and will take a few hours or even a few days before they will let you approach them. None of the dogs are aggressive, but some do prefer their personal space. We would recommend approaching each dog slowly with an outstretched hand, allow them to have a little sniff, and gauge how they react.

Over the next few days, we got into a routine and learned a variety of daily tasks. Here are some tasks we assisted with in the mornings:

• Shaking out the dog beds and airing them in the sun

• Sweeping the benches (the soft brooms are hooked under the roof)

• Sweeping the floors, particularly near the trees and entrance area

• Cleaning the big black sleeping tubs

• Removing dog jackets

• Petting and brushing the dogs (brushes are kept under the roof shelf)

• Refilling and cleaning the dogs' water bowls

• Pooper scooping (anytime during the day)

Lunch was usually around 12pm. We typically either brought lunch from 7eleven and ate by the beach or rode into town to grab a bite. In the afternoons, we returned around 1pm and helped with tasks such as:

• Walking the disabled dogs their wheelchairs

• Washing the disabled dogs

• Putting jackets on the dogs

• Sweeping the benches again (soft brooms under the roof)

• Laying out the dog beds along the benches

After a few days, we got to assist with more specialised tasks, including:

• Cleaning eyes and administering eye drops to specific dogs

• Helping with feeding in the mornings and afternoons (it’s great to observe the regular volunteers and staff first to see how they manage these situations). Many of the dogs are quite tense during mealtime so it’s best to move slowly and try to support the shier dogs from having their food stolen.

• Getting some of the dogs back into their kennels

• Providing light wound care

• Manual tasks like digging trenches, clearing the roofs, or repairing/building things (usually with guidance)

Verity and Tep are very open to suggestions and truly appreciate any skills you may have to offer—whether they’re medical (like Stacia, a nurse), photography/video skills (like Josh, a graphic designer), or any hands-on help. The regular volunteers and workers are always happy to lend a hand and enjoy getting to know the new volunteers. They really appreciate any help we can offer, whether it's with tasks or simply spending time loving and playing with the dogs!

Our time at Headrock was an incredibly memorable experience, and we learned so much about the dogs, their behaviours, and the importance of giving them a second chance. The work they do gives these dogs a chance at a better life.

We’re sure your time at Headrock will be just as fulfilling and rewarding as ours was. Best of luck, and we hope you have a wonderful experience!