For six years, Tuesday has meant one thing for Sam—Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH).

Since first joining HPHH in 2020, Sam has become a much-loved member of our HPHH Hunter Valley family, celebrating an incredible milestone of attending our programs for six years. Six years of commitment, kindness and wholehearted dedication to the rescue animals at Hunter Valley Animal Facility & Rehoming Centre (HVAFARC), leaving a big paw-print on the lives of so many animals in care.

Sam celebrating her journey with long-term shelter dog, Doug.

Looking back on her journey, Sam proudly reflects that one of the biggest changes she's seen in herself is simple.

"I've come out of my shell."

Over the years, Sam's quiet confidence has continued to grow. Today, she's one of the first to welcome new participants into the group, proudly sharing her knowledge of how sessions run, explaining enrichment activities and helping everyone feel right at home. One of her favourite roles is introducing new participants to the animals at HVAFARC, especially the familiar long-term dogs and cats who regularly join HPHH sessions. Whether sharing their names or quirky personalities , Sam takes great pride in helping others get to know the animals she has built such special connections with over the years.

Hunter Valley Team Leader Nina has watched Sam’s transformation unfold firsthand.

"Sam has become someone our newer participants naturally look to. She loves sharing what she knows and takes genuine pride in helping others feel comfortable and included. She’s such a beautiful example of what our HPHH community is all about."

Sam's commitment extends well beyond Tuesday mornings. Every week she arrives with a collection of toilet rolls and recycled materials she has gathered at home and out in the community, ready to share them in the class to transform into enrichment that keeps curious noses busy, minds engaged and tails wagging.

"I enjoy helping the animal shelter each week”, Sam proudly shared.

It's these thoughtful acts of care that have become synonymous with Sam's HPHH journey. Whether she's preparing enrichment, supporting the shelter team or simply spending time with the dogs and cats, Sam understands that every small interaction can make a meaningful difference to an animal's day while they wait for their new home.

Just as meaningful are the friendships Sam has built along the way.

Over six years, HPHH has become more than somewhere to spend time with animals, it's become a place where both friendships and confidence have flourished. It's where Sam has formed lasting friendships with fellow participants, support workers and trainers, many of whom she greets with her trademark enthusiasm each week.

When asked what HPHH means to her, her answer couldn't have been simpler.

"Happy, joy and laughter."

Perhaps one of the most touching reflections came when Sam shared one of the biggest lessons she's learnt about herself over the years.

"Be kind to myself."

Alongside her love for animals, Sam reminds us that growth isn't always measured by the biggest milestones. Sometimes it's found in the quiet moments—six years of building confidence, lending a helping paw, sharing her big heart with others and making life a little brighter for every animal she meets.

Congratulations, Sam, on six wonderful years with the HPHH family. Tuesdays simply wouldn't be the same without you. 💞🐾