‘He does it for the dogs’ May 23, 2025
We are halfway through our 150 stories in 150 days project as we countdown to our 150th birthday celebrations.
Today, we are recognizing the 2024 NHS Employee of the Year, Dustin. This is how his nomination read:
“I am nominating Dustin for Employee of the Year for exhibiting – and exemplifying – dignity, respect, and compassion for all animals. In addition, for his dedication and determination to do right by every animal that comes through our doors.
Dustin is one of the hardest working individuals I’ve met. He operates behind the scenes in a way that you might not even notice he’s there – but you’d certainly notice if he wasn’t. During the virus outbreak at the shelter, Dustin worked tirelessly to ensure the animals’ needs were being met – even if that meant sacrificing his own needs. He never wavered or hesitated. If there was something he could do, he did it. To say he goes above and beyond for these dogs would be an understatement.
He approaches each and every one with a level of compassion and respect that most people simply aren’t capable of. You can see it in the way the dogs respond to him – especially the shy, fearful ones that have seen the worst of humanity. He doesn’t just earn their trust, he proves to them that some people are actually okay. If you’re lucky, you get to witness the shift that takes place after Dustin spends some time with a dog. It’s subtle and it’s gradual, and it happens over and over again. And he doesn’t do it for brownie points, or because it’s his job – he does it for the dogs.
Dustin doesn’t need recognition. But he deserves it. Not only is Dustin able to spot opportunities for second (and even third) chances, but he’s also able to recognize when we’ve done everything we can. He’s willing to do whatever it takes if it’s in the best interests of the animals, even if it means asking hard questions and making hard decisions. He knows what he’s capable of – what we’re capable of. Every shelter needs a Dustin. We are incredibly fortunate to have this one.”
If you have a dog from NHS, especially a Diamond Dog, there’s a strong chance they spent time with Dustin. Thank you to him for his constant advocation for the animals.
(75/150)