At Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, we’re incredibly lucky to have volunteers who bring not only their time and energy, but also their passion, dedication, and heart to every moment spent with the animals in our care. One such volunteer is Giulia, whose journey into animal care is both deeply personal and incredibly inspiring.
We recently had the pleasure of asking Giulia a few questions about what brought her to us, what keeps her motivated, and where she hopes this journey will lead. Her words speak for themselves – and we hope they’ll move you as much as they moved us.
What inspired you to volunteer in animal care?
“I’ve grown up around dogs my entire life and each of them helped shape the way I give and receive love. They have always been a central part of my life.
After few years of living in England, I realised how much I missed that connection, and that’s when I met Mia, a beautiful and goofy Cane Corso who changed my life. Mia was incredibly loving and complex, as she struggled with fear-based reactivity toward people. Every walk was stressful, for both of us, as bikes, scooters, or someone walking past could trigger her.
Determined to help her, I reached out to five different trainers and committed to working with her every single day. Slowly, I began to see her transform – less barking, calmer, and eventually, we could sit in the park together without her reacting. The first time that happened, I cried. It was a breakthrough that meant the world to me.
After three incredible years together, Mia passed away due to a rare genetic illness. Losing her shattered me, but through the grief, I realised what I wanted to do with my life: work with complex dogs and help them have the lives they deserve. I left my previous career and began studying canine behaviour.
Volunteering here is a way for me to honour Mia and the journey we shared, as well as to give back to dogs who just need understanding, patience, and a chance.”
Are there any specific animal care skills or knowledge areas you would like to develop further?
“I’m especially interested in developing my skills in behaviour consulting and assessments. I’d like to build more confidence in creating and adapting behaviour modification plans, and I know that gaining more hands-on experience would be incredibly helpful in putting theory into practice.
I’m also really keen to expand my understanding of feline behaviour. Cats communicate very differently from dogs, and I’d love to learn more about their body language, emotional states, and how to support their wellbeing.”
What are your short-term and long-term goals related to animal care or veterinary work?
“My short-term goal is to learn as much as I can through hands-on experience and observation. I want to build practical skills and deepen my confidence so I can overcome the impostor syndrome I sometimes feel. Being around experienced carers and trainers can really help me connect what I’ve studied with real-world application, and I’m eager to keep growing through that process.
My long-term goal is still evolving, but I’d love to work as a freelance dog behaviourist, particularly supporting shelter dogs. I’m also drawn to the idea of one day opening a small rehabilitation centre focused on behavioural recovery. I’m keeping an open mind as I continue to gain experience, but I know I want to dedicate my career to improving the lives of animals – especially those who are often misunderstood.”
What has surprised you about Bristol Animal Rescue Centre?
“What’s really surprised and impressed me is the incredible amount of work the team puts into giving every single animal a real chance – no matter their background or challenges. It’s not just about basic care; it’s the level of dedication, thought, and compassion that goes into each decision, from training and enrichment to medical care and rehoming.
You can really see that everyone here is committed to the animals’ overall wellbeing. It’s made me realise how much is happening behind the scenes to support both the animals and the people who care for them.”
Thank you, Giulia.
Your story, your compassion, and your commitment are exactly what make our volunteer community so special. Thank you for honouring Mia through your work with us and for reminding us all of the power of patience, empathy, and second chances.
