Volunteering in The Navajo Nation
Since I was a little girl, I knew I’d end up helping animals — it’s what led me to a career in veterinary medicine. When the opportunity arose to volunteer with my practice and help pets and their families in under-resourced communities, I jumped at it. My excitement to make an impact in the lives of others was at an all-time high before the assignment even began.
Last week, six volunteers including myself partnered with the Banfield Foundation and RedRover to build 24 enclosures for pets in the Navajo Nation of New Mexico. This particular part of the community sat alongside a dangerous highway, making the work even more meaningful. The days were long and demanding — fierce winds whipped dirt and rocks across our faces, the sun was relentless, and the rugged terrain forced us to pivot our strategy again and again.
Each day, we assembled fencing panels, hammered wire into the ground, and added canopies and tarps for shade and weather protection before placing dog houses and enrichment items inside each enclosure. Some enclosures became safe havens for a single dog, while others housed multiple pets.
Every structure built meant one less pet chained or tethered — and one more family with peace of mind. The reactions were unforgettable. I watched anxious, reactive dogs relax for the first time; others ran joyfully through their new space, tails wagging in freedom. Many gnawed on bones before curling up in the shade for a well-earned nap.
As each day came to a close, grateful pet parents met us with smiles, hugs, and heartfelt thanks.
When our three-day assignment ended, I drove back to Moab for one last hike before heading home. Sitting beneath the arches of Arches National Park, I ate a pear that a kind woman had given us after we built six enclosures in her yard — and I cried.
Not because I was sad (though I did miss my new teammates who had quickly become friends), but because the impact I had hoped to make on others had instead been made on me. The Navajo Nation is full of incredible, resilient, and compassionate people who care deeply for their animals and their community.
During our stay, we had the privilege of witnessing the 112th Northern Navajo Fair. Locals stopped us often — curious where we were from, eager to share the meaning behind the ceremonies, and how to respectfully participate. Their warmth and pride were deeply moving.
I left New Mexico with immense respect and gratitude — for the Navajo people, for their culture, and for the organizations that continue to bring veterinary care and community support to where it’s needed most.
In every photo, I see more than fences built — I see freedom, compassion, and a piece of my heart left in the desert sun.
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(In order to protect the privacy of families only select videos and photos can be posted)
