At Doodle Dandy Rescue, every volunteer brings their own story, passion, and purpose to our mission — and some journeys come full circle in the most meaningful ways. Randi Shelton’s story is one of those beautiful moments where adoption turns into advocacy, and love for one doodle grows into a deep commitment to helping countless others find safety and second chances!
Randi began her volunteering journey September: "I started volunteering with Doodle Dandy Rescue in September, shortly after adopting my sweet boy, Cotton, through DDR. I joined the intake team soon after, and I was recently offered the role of Lead Intake for the Austin region — which feels especially meaningful since Cotton himself came from that very region. It’s funny how things come full circle." What started as gratitude for her own adoption experience quickly turned into a passion for helping other dogs begin their journey to forever homes.
Her inspiration to join the rescue came directly from seeing the heart behind DDR’s adoption process: "Before bringing Cottonworth home, I had applied for several dogs, and I was genuinely impressed by how thorough, thoughtful, and intentional the entire process was. It opened my eyes to how important it is not just to place a dog, but to make sure each one ends up in a home where they can truly thrive. Seeing that level of care and commitment made it clear that DDR’s mission aligned perfectly with my own values, and I knew I wanted to be part of it."
As a member — and now Lead — of the Intake team, Randi plays a critical role in advocating for dogs from the very moment they enter the rescue: "What I enjoy most about volunteering with DDR is the sense of purpose it gives me. I’m someone who naturally thrives on staying busy, and like so many others, I have a deep love for dogs — especially doodles. Being part of intake is incredibly rewarding because you know you’re advocating for each dog from the moment they enter the rescue. You’re helping ensure they’re safe, loved, and set up for a future where they can truly flourish. It’s honestly one of the most meaningful and fulfilling things I’ve ever been part of."
She also shared how much the people around her have shaped her journey: "I also can’t say enough about the incredible team of leaders, mentors, and advocates who support us. Their guidance, encouragement, and passion make all the difference. They help each of us grow, learn, and become the very best volunteers we can be. Being surrounded by people who care this deeply is one of the things I value most about being part of DDR."
Like many volunteers, one of Randi’s most impactful moments came through fostering. "One of my favorite rescue memories has to be my very first experience fostering. There have been so many wonderful moments since then, but that one stands out because of how much it taught me. I learned so much about what a dog truly needs to feel safe and supported, and how important it is to approach everything in a way that sets them up for success. It was eye-opening, rewarding, and the moment I realized just how meaningful this work really is."
Volunteering has also shaped her perspective in powerful ways: "Volunteering with DDR has taught me so much, but the most profound lesson is understanding the impact we can have on a dog’s life. Not every situation is the same, but there are times when we truly are helping save a dog — giving them safety, stability, and a chance they might not have had otherwise. Being able to advocate for animals who can’t advocate for themselves is what drives me to keep learning, growing, and giving more. It’s a kind of purpose and passion I didn’t know I was missing until I found it."
Just as meaningful as the work itself is the way Randi shows up for her teammates. Rescue is never a one-person effort — it takes communication, trust, and a willingness to jump in wherever help is needed. One teammate who nominated Randi shared just how much of an impact she makes behind the scenes: "Randi has been a phenomenal member of the Intake team. She is such a pleasure to work with due to her positive spirit and ensuring that she is a voice for all the doodles coming into the rescue. Even though she is on the intake team, she helps foster placement out tremendously by being thorough!" This level of collaboration and dedication helps ensure every dog receives the best possible start to their DDR journey.
Outside of rescue, Randi’s heart for people and purpose shines just as brightly. "I love Jesus first and foremost. I’m happily married to my best friend of 17 years. Believe it or not, I didn’t get my first dog until I was 43 — and now I can’t imagine life without one. I’m absolutely the person who replies to emails immediately, and I thrive on learning new skills and managing a little chaos. I’m a researcher at heart, and I love my family and friends more than anything. I also cry over everything — happy tears, sad tears, you name it. And despite being deeply involved in rescue, I somehow do not have nearly enough dog photos on my phone."
And of course, doodles have become a beloved part of her daily life — and her family’s too. "One of my favorite ‘doodle moments’ actually comes from my family. They now send me every doodle photo, video, or reel they come across — and I love it. I’ll get random texts asking, ‘Hey, is this a doodle?’ or my mom will send me a whole string of doodle reels just because she knows it will make me smile. It’s become a running joke in the family, and honestly, it’s one of my favorite parts of being involved in rescue."
Randi, thank you for being a compassionate advocate, a supportive teammate, and a powerful voice for doodles entering our rescue. Your dedication, heart, and positive spirit make a difference every single day — and we are so grateful to have you as part of the Doodle Dandy Rescue family!
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, join us here.
Written By: Madelyn, DDR Volunteer