From Coast to Coast, This Duo Is Making a Difference
Since 2016, longtime volunteers Jay and Tom have been a beloved part of the Animal Farm Foundation family. Their commitment to dogs and to our mission has remained unwavering through a cross-country move, a pandemic, and the everyday curveballs of life. We’re proud to celebrate them in this month’s Volunteer Spotlight.
How it all Started
Jay and Tom met in New York City nearly four decades ago (or as they jokingly put it, “a million years ago”). While they always wanted to share their home with a dog, Jay’s severe animal allergies made adoption impossible. Even their attempt with a so-called “hypoallergenic” dog ended in rashes and regret.
But their desire to be around dogs never faded. So, they took a different route: They became volunteers.
After retiring and relocating to the Hudson Valley full time, Jay and Tom found Animal Farm Foundation the old-fashioned way, through a Google search.
“We were especially drawn to AFF’s two-part mission,” they say. “Not only the hands-on work of rehoming dogs often labeled as ‘pit bulls,’ but also the advocacy and education around breed bias. The idea that all dogs are individuals really spoke to us.”
Tom adds: “And the gorgeous setting didn’t hurt! The 400-acre farm is just as inspiring as the dogs themselves.”
A Journey Fueled by Purpose
Shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic, the couple moved to California, andtheir commitment to dogs traveled with them. There, they expanded their impact by volunteering at government shelters, Humane Societies, and an sanctuary called Shadow’s Fund, a group whose founders, it turned out, trained with AFF in 2009.
Last year, missing friends and family, Jay and Tom returned to New York. One of the first things they did was reconnect with Animal Farm Foundation.
“Coming back to AFF felt like coming home,” said Jay. “It was our first experience with rescue work, and it shaped our entire view of the human–dog relationship. We believe deeply in the idea that dogs aren’t just companions, they’re fellow beings who depend on us.”
Why Volunteers Like Jay & Tom Matter
Volunteers are the beating heart of AFF. From helping our team give dogs walks, playtime and cuddles to sharing first-hand stories and photos about dogs’ personalities with potential adopters, our volunteers make it possible for us to do what we do: Shorten shelter stays and connect dogs with loving homes.
Please join us in giving Jay and Tom a big round of a-paws 
for their unwavering support and compassion.
Learn more about AFF’s mission. Get involved as a volunteer.
