Jade Leah Burns spent a full shift at the Anna Shelter on East 10th Street, assisting staff with the daily care of animals awaiting adoption. The work involved extensive cleaning, feeding, and direct interaction with potential adopters.
Shelter employee Gretchen Zukowski described the environment as consistently busy. Burns and Zukowski remained on their feet throughout the entire shift. Zukowski noted the physical demands of the role, including exposure to waste, but emphasized the reward of seeing animals find permanent homes.
The facility is divided into separate sections for dogs and cats. Burns was assigned to the canine side. The cleaning process began with laundry, requiring the washing of blankets, towels, toys, and beds. Following laundry, the team deep-cleaned the kennels. This involved moving the dogs outside, a task Burns found more difficult than anticipated.
Inside the kennels, all items were removed, including waste. Zukowski explained that the first step is applying a strong sanitizing spray to the walls and floors. Burns scrubbed the surfaces, rinsed them, and dried them before preparing the space for new residents. One new dog, described as fearful due to a previous cruelty case, hid in the backyard bushes upon arrival.
Feeding occurs twice daily. The staff and Burns also assisted visitors interested in adopting. When asked about her experience, Burns highlighted an energetic dog named Mr. Ruger. She noted that Ruger is beautiful but scared, hoping he finds a patient owner.
