Sarah Whittenburg

Role: Kentucky Humane Society | Canine Coach (2017-2023)

I adopted Barack, pictured here, from the Kentucky Humane Society in 2017. They rescued him from an overcrowded shelter in Iowa where he was in line for euthanasia. Barack was afraid of doorways and thresholds. He did not like anyone touching his head. But I knew right away that Barack was special. He woke me up to chase squirrels at 4am. He ran through leaf piles with frenetic energy. He barked incessantly at the sky.

He reminds me that being alive is heartbreakingly exciting, even when you have big feelings you don’t quite know how to manage.

I felt a personal call to action to volunteer with the Kentucky Humane Society after adopting Barack. They strive to ensure every animal is given the care, resources, and lifelong home they deserve. I wanted high-quality care afforded to Barack when he needed help. Now it is my turn to help provide that care to other animals.

In 2021, KHS helped 5,774 animals find homes. You can donate and learn more about the organization on their website.