Volunteer Spotlight: Debbie Fry

At P.A.W.S. Hancock, our volunteers are the heart of everything we do—and this June, we’re proud to celebrate Debbie Fry as our Volunteer of the Month!

Debbie has been volunteering with P.A.W.S. since October 2019. Her journey with us began after a P.A.W.S. Board member went out of her way to return Debbie’s beloved lost dog. Grateful to the P.A.W.S. volunteer, Debbie wanted to give back to the organization that had given her so much.

Debbie has always had a soft spot for animals. Growing up, she was surrounded by dogs, parakeets, guinea pigs, rabbits, and fish. That love for animals has only grown—today, she shares her home with a lively menagerie that includes 4 dogs, 2 rabbits, a guinea pig, a finch, 5 chickens, 8 baby chicks, and a few quail and pheasants that her husband, Kirby, is raising.

At P.A.W.S., Debbie wears many hats. She’s our Spay/Neuter Coordinator, a dedicated dog foster, and a vital presence at events. As Coordinator, she spends countless hours each month organizing lists for transport, preparing labels and sheets, and coordinating check-ins—often starting at 6:30 a.m. and wrapping up as late as 9 p.m. Her dedication ensures that dozens of animals each month receive the critical care they need.

Debbie is especially passionate about spay and neuter efforts, knowing it’s one of the most effective ways to reduce shelter overpopulation. “There is little I can do for all the unwanted animals sitting in shelters,” she says, “but I can help reduce the numbers going in.” She also finds fostering rewarding, offering dogs a safe place until they find forever homes.

One of her most memorable fosters was a dog surrendered by a family dealing with both dementia and cancer. At 10 years old and 65 pounds, Mya didn’t have the odds in her favor—but Debbie saw something special in her. Mya became a beloved member of Debbie’s family and, at 14, is still going strong. “Best dog I’ve ever had,” she says.

Debbie’s time as a volunteer—and as a former Board Member—has given her a deep understanding of the many challenges and decisions that come with rescue work. Her background as a hospice nurse has also shaped her compassion and perspective, especially when making end-of-life decisions for senior pets. “Would you want to live that way?” is a question that’s stayed with her when weighing difficult choices.

For anyone thinking about volunteering, Debbie has this advice: “People ask how I can let go of my fosters, but I remind them—each one adopted means I can save another.” Her selfless mindset and tireless work are a true gift to the rescue.

Looking ahead, Debbie hopes to continue helping in every way she can and supports the dream of a future P.A.W.S. facility with expanded services. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of this wonderful organization,” she says—and we’re beyond grateful to have her.

Thank you, Debbie, for your heart, your time, and your unwavering commitment to animals in need!