Val

Val joined the Bay Area Pet Pals team in Autumn of 2016. Having grown up with cats, dogs and birds – Val is happiest in the company of a furry or feathered friend. She has three dogs of her own, a senior Goldendoodle and two well-loved “foster failures”. A “foster failure” is a cute term used when one is fostering a dog for future adoption, and then decides to adopt the dog themselves. Val’s include a formerly feral and fearful spaniel mix that had to be trapped by the San Jose shelter, and a six year-old Labradoodle who was surrendered to the shelter.

Val has personally and successfully fostered fifteen shelter dogs, some with persistent behavior and health issues. She worked with veterinarians, trainers, groomers, and others to prepare the dogs to be placed in loving forever homes. She has volunteered with local rescues for the past several years performing home checks for potential fosters and adopters.

Val also volunteers at the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah when she can. Founded in 1984, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary rescues dogs, cats, birds, horses, pigs, goats, and some wild animals. She primarily volunteers in Dog Town, walking dogs, training puppies, cleaning kennels, and whatever else is needed. She especially loves spending time with the senior dogs. The sanctuary was founded by animal-loving individuals whose shared vision is to seek alternatives to euthanasia.

Val recently retired from her full-time administrative profession to focus on her true passion – helping animals – and she now spends her time taking care of them while their own families are working or vacationing.

Being a Pet Pal brings her great satisfaction. She cannot wait to meet your furry loved ones!