Joe is a very experience Volunteer dog handler at Marion County Dog Shelter. Joe has been a Volunteer for two years and 5 months with 342.93 service hours. Joe is here at the shelter every Saturday morning from 7:30 am to 9 am. He began as a Dog walker, but as Joe became more skilled and comfortable in his handling and understanding of dog behavior, he's able to work closely with staff at Level 2 and Level 3 Dog walking, which means more one- on - one time with difficult and behaviorally challenging dogs. Joe performs his volunteer role to an exemplary level, he demonstrates extraordinary commitment to Marion County Dog Shelter as well as Marion County stray dogs. Joe is such a great help, especially when the dog shelter has 30 + dogs in kennel. He makes a difference in that dog's time here at the shelter and those dogs greatly benefit from being out of the kennel for a while (running around the play yards, sniffing, etc.). The greater community also benefits from Joe’s handling skills because the dogs have a knowledgeable handler to make them feel comfortable, safe, and willing to go outside with different volunteers. Overall this reduces any stress the dogs may feel during their shelter stay. Joe’s insight about each dog helps staff assess the behavior of the animals before being adopted as well. Joe preforms above and beyond and offers his expertise and skills to help the stray dogs of Marion County. Joe is great with the dogs, and staff appreciates his input, time, and social contact with the dogs during their stay at the shelter. All this is invaluable towards understanding the lost and stray dogs of Marion County.