Volunteer Spotlight: Catching Up with Pat Holmes

Pat Holmes has been a Brigadoon volunteer for nearly three years. After losing her beloved pet dog, Pat wanted dogs in her life again, but she wasn't sure she was ready for another long-term commitment. Puppy raising offered a way to love a dog deeply while helping someone else at the same time.  

Ben (Benjamin) was the first puppy she raised from puppyhood to placement, and he kept her on her toes. Pat laughs that she had forgotten how intense the puppy stage can be, but she also credits the experience with teaching her about training, patience, and trust.  

Raising a puppy also showed Pat the importance of respite fostering. Over the past two years, Pat has welcomed more than eight other Brigadoon dogs into her home, providing each with love and care.  

The Joy of Letting Go

Graduation was both joyful and hard. Pat calls it "happy-sad," because you fall in love knowing you will let go. Your goodbye is the first step toward someone else's hello—their hello to independence, confidence, and companionship.  

She says that while "saying goodbye to dogs you've raised is never easy," watching Ben step into his purpose "makes it all worth it." It's a reminder that loving a dog enough to let go can change someone's life forever.  

Interested in Fostering a Brigadoon Dog? No prior experience is needed—we provide training and cover costs for dog food and veterinary care. If you love dogs and want to make a meaningful impact, visit brigadoondogs.org/volunteer.

Learn About Volunteering