Meet Imelda | USPCA Receptionist

Say hello to Imelda, the newest member of our busy reception team here at the USPCA. Developing a love for animals at such a young age, Imelda has found herself in perfect company here at at the USPCA.

How long have you been working with the USPCA?

Just over two months now!

What drew you towards working for the USPCA?

I have always had a love for animals, and they have played a big part in my life. My fondest memories growing up revolved around my pets. I knew that working with the USPCA would offer the opportunity to be part of a wider animal family.

What does a typical day look like for you?

The role of being a receptionist in the USPCA is a very busy one from the minute your shift starts until the minute it ends. Answering calls, dealing with queries, and giving advice, booking appointments for veterinary, grooming and rehoming, keeping clients and pets records up to date and helping customers with shop purchases.

What is your favourite part of your role as USPCA Receptionist?

I love to see the joy in people’s faces both young and old when they get the opportunity to give a pet a forever home. It is the type of job that pulls on the heartstrings but it’s the best. I also love to see the generosity of others – being a charity, a little means a lot.

Do you have any pets of your own?

Yes, we have a 6-year-old miniature schnauzer called Rex. After having kids, we decided to wait and get a dog once they were old enough to understand the responsibilities of caring for any animal. Even though I do most of the walking, the kids take care of the feeding, making sure he has fresh water and the not so nice job of cleaning up after him. Rex is a character, and we couldn’t imagine life without him. I am always teasing the kids telling them that he loves me the most!

We see many animals enter the USPCA for rehoming, are there any animals that have stuck out in your mind / been a favourite?

Even though I am only working for the USPCA for a short time, I have followed their social media pages for a lot longer. One dog that has stuck in my mind is Sam the German Shepherd. His beautiful face and the happiness in his eyes shone through on the day he was collected. It is heart-warming when people stay in touch with the USPCA, sharing photos and stories of their rehoming journey and even calling in just to say ‘Hello'.

I have a couple of friends that have adopted dogs from the USPCA, so I have the pleasure of getting to see them happy in their forever homes.