Helping Canines Find Compassion
At the heart of San Francisco’s animal rescue community lies Muttville, an organization dedicated to giving senior dogs a second chance at life. Patty Stanton, SOC/BA ‘80, has played an instrumental role in the organization’s growth since its founding. From fostering and adopting senior dogs to being the driving force behind media campaigns and fundraising initiatives, Stanton’s volunteer work exemplifies how passion and professional skills can merge to create meaningful change.
Stanton’s involvement with Muttville began during a transitional period in her career. “In 2008, at the start of the recession, I was going to take a short break from my career in radio. I'd grown up with dogs but hadn't had one for many years. I was co-parenting a 10-year-old and thought our family should have a dog! Having a pet during your childhood is an enriching experience—it gives children some responsibility and offers the unconditional love that a pet provides,” she says. Stanton was drawn to the idea of adoption. “The thought of rescuing a life resonated with me.”
At Muttville, then a small rescue operating out of the founder’s home, Stanton encountered older dogs recovering on couches and dog beds after difficult circumstances. It was there that she met Frankie, a neglected Shih Tzu-Lhasa Apso mix. “Frankie became our cherished family dog,” she recalls. Inspired by the experience, Stanton thought, “A senior dog rescue is such a good idea. I should find a way to contribute.”
“After ĢƵ, I worked at WTTG on a children's show and then moved into the sales division there. On to San Francisco, where my career took me to the ABC News/Talk radio station as a producer. I like engaging people, and a good part of the animal welfare world is doing just that—interacting with people!” Her skills translated seamlessly into advocacy for Muttville. Stanton’s background in radio and media helped her drive outreach efforts.
“I proposed the idea to [the founder] of being featured on a radio program,” she continued, “to discuss this non-profit organization if I could arrange it. ‘Absolutely,’ she agreed. She made an appearance on a popular program, and I witnessed the rise in adoption applications that followed!” It was gratifying for Stanton to see how she could influence the lives of these rescued dogs by raising awareness, which led her to take on that responsibility herself.
The reasons behind dogs being surrendered to Muttville vary, but older dogs face significant challenges in traditional shelters. “It’s a sad reality that older dogs are often overlooked in animal shelters and rescue organizations,” Stanton explains. “Having been a pet parent to numerous dogs, I know their gratefulness and wisdom that comes with age. Those of us who adopt older dogs empathize with their circumstances and understand the shorter lifespan we may face.”
Over time, her involvement deepened, and Stanton joined Muttville’s board of directors contributing to fundraising and donor relations. Muttville’s innovations include the nation’s first cage-free shelter and an on-site veterinary suite. Thousands of dogs have found homes across the Bay Area and beyond, with adopters traveling from as far as Oregon, Alaska, Colorado, and New Jersey to give these dogs new beginnings. Muttville frequently sees repeat adopters returning to find additional furry family members.
Recently, Muttville purchased a new building, expanding its operations. They have created a warm, cage-free living room environment that transforms the often gloomy and intimidating image of animal rescue. “We were incredibly fortunate that world-renowned interior designer, Ken Fulk, provided a pro-bono team to design the space with functionality and vibrant details to attract potential adopters and increase adoption rates.”
Stanton standing in front of Muttville'snew, expanded space.
Looking back, Stanton acknowledges how her SOC experience prepared her for nonprofit work. “During my junior and senior years, I was involved in managing the photography darkroom and served as a photographer for The Eagle and our yearbook. I have a pretty good eye for composition, which is crucial when it comes to advocating for rescue dogs—a good photo makes all the difference. Like on a dating website, the initial image makes the first impression.”
The knowledge and skills Stanton gained from her SOC courses—photography, public speaking, TV, and radio production—are directly applicable to her contributions to Muttville today. “I'm responsible for crafting Public Service Announcements, delivering presentations to classes, and interacting with the media and the general public.”
Stanton encourages current SOC students and graduates to pursue their passions in the nonprofit sector. “First, consider what truly fuels your enthusiasm, then dive in and get creative. Cultivate your storytelling abilities. Establish relationships with media decision-makers and writers who can provide exposure for your concepts. Be pleasantly persistent. Present innovative ideas to attract interest. Be organized. Ensure your subject line is eye-catching and all your assets are included in your very first pitch correspondence. Become a resource in your non-profit category. Enjoy advocating for a cause that holds significance for you.”
After 15 years, Stanton remains proud of Muttville’s impact. “Muttville is now the age of a very senior dog—seventeen years old! In its first year, 27 older dogs were rescued and rehomed; now, 27 dogs find homes every week,” she says. “We’ve built something truly special, and I’m so very happy to be a part of the growth and success.”