Nicholas Lopes

“A dog can leave a man but that man will never forget the dog.”

As a Saltus student, volunteering is important because it shows we care about our community and island home.

I chose Bermuda Veterinary Services because I love animals. I have a special place in my heart for dogs, especially German shepherds!

Volunteering at BVS allows me to spend time walking, playing ball, running and socialising with dogs that are there for doggy daycare or holiday boarding.

I like to think that my time spent with the dogs means they have extra outside time to play as they may be missing their homes and families. I’m there every Tuesday after school for three hours and more on holidays if I can.

In the future, I will continue to serve my community whether here in Bermuda or overseas. I’m an equestrian. I ride with Holly Hill Farm in Massachusetts in the US.

I plan to take a gap year before university to compete my horses full time in show jumping.

My ideas for service there would be helping at Danny and Ron’s Dog Rescue in Wellington, Florida, and helping children with homework at a community centre.