Oakland Animal Services (OAS) lost a giant this weekend. Since Pat Luchak began volunteering at OAS in 2008, she was a tireless advocate for Dobermans and Pit Bulls and other big dogs that were at highest risk for euthanasia. To know Pat was to know her absolute tenacity and unwillingness to accept the status quo for dogs at OAS.
Over many years, Pat was the personal conduit to getting so many dogs to rescue organizations as she relentlessly connected with people far and wide to find help for dogs who would have otherwise been euthanized. She did that up until the end of her life, since even battling her own illness was not a reason to her to give up the fight for vulnerable dogs.
Animal welfare work can be challenging, and at times painful, but Pat brought to it such a beautiful spirit that lifted everyone around her. She showed us what is possible when someone gives their all to help dogs who need a lucky break. She was that miracle for so many. She showed that same compassion to the people around her. We will honor her memory by keeping up the good fight on behalf of the vulnerable dogs who need us to make magic on their behalf.
Please feel free to share a fond memory of Pat in the comments below.
Steven Carmel says
When I first came to volunteer at OAS in 2013, Pat help me tremendously. She was one of the kindest, most dedicated, volunteers I have ever met. I will always remember her wondrous spirit, her infectious love for the animals, and her wonderful smile. Thanks for being a bright light in this world.
Cindy Regnier says
Pat’s commitment to OAS and animal welfare didn’t just stop with the dogs – she frequently brought in left over greens from the local farmer’s market to feed the bunnies and other small critters. She just had such a generous spirit – always willing to help! I miss her presence at OAS, she was just a gem of a person. We could all do well to learn to be a little bit more like her. Rest in peace Pat! I’m sure the bunnies offer their binkies of gratitude for your generosity and support over the years too.
Cindy
(Rabbit mentor)
Vicki Nevins says
We were 6 years old when we met and I’ve loved her ever since. Pat and I were in 1st to 6th grade together. My best childhood fry. Such an amazing, brilliant, inspiring woman. She had this special skill of matchmaking (introduced countless couples that wound up getting married, including my ex husband and me). . Somehow that skill transferred to matching up dogs with people who loved them. I so much admire Pat’s bravery and optimism in the face of her illness. Can’t believe she’s gone. I will always carry her in my heart.
Cindy Perry says
Pat will be in my heart forever.
Frankie Pritchard says
Pat and I bonded at OAS over 10 years ago with a “D” dog pit mix I fell in love with. I was first a dog volunteer before switching to cats and later starting the bunny rabbit adoption program. Pat gave me such encouragement to work with big dogs too scared to be easily adopted. Such a glowing positive soul! She loved all animals and we talked about cats and even birds. She immediately offered to lend me her ice machine on learning of my upcoming knee replacement and gave me helpful information about a procedure she had already gone through with flying colors. Hard to realize she is gone, but her wonderful work with big dogs and all our memories of her will live on!
Megan Webb says
Pat was a remarkable person who I am grateful to have known and who made a truly positive impact with her dedication and compassion. She was an original OAS mentor and was instrumental in developing and growing the volunteer program. She was full of creative ideas and was a reliable and consistent champion for shelter dogs for so many years.
It is impossible to calculate the huge number of dog lives that Pat improved through her direct work with them, as well as the countless dogs that were subsequently helped by the volunteers she trained, mentored and inspired. Her legacy will live on as each of them continue to go on to care for shelter dogs and mentor future volunteers.
Trish Roque says
“…When it’s over, I want to say all my life
I was a bride married to amazement.
I was the bridegroom, taking the world into my arms.
When it’s over, I don’t want to wonder
if I have made of my life something particular, and real.
I don’t want to find myself sighing and frightened,
or full of argument.
I don’t want to end up simply having visited this world.”
-Mary Oliver
This poem was you Pat. You did not just visit this world. You helped to create a beautiful community at OAS and improved so many lives, both humans and animals. I will forever miss seeing you with your fanny pack full of dog treats and your genuine smile of knowing you were doing all that you can despite how hard it could be at times. Thank you for all that you did and for all the lives that you saved!
Caroline says
I met Pat my first Monday volunteering at OAS and was blessed to see her most Mondays after that for a long time. What a fierce passionate advocate for our animals she was! I loved her energy- when I came in for my shift she would walk me through kennels showing me the big dogs that needed the most care. As we went through she gave treats to every dog as she passed by.
Pat knew I loved giant breeds and when a Dane or Mastiff came in she would be the first to tell me. Just a few months ago she called me about a Dane case and hooked me up with a lawyer who was advocating for him to be saved. And exactly 1 month one week ago she was supporting me with saving Gracie, a Mastiff at OAS.
Pat, I already miss your sweetness to all, your undying energy for saving the dogs, and your tenacity to continue on no matter what. You were and are a blessing to all beings that ever came into contact to you, and also to the legacy that you have left behind.
Fly free! You have your angel wings now! You are so loved.
Delphina Han says
I got to know Pat when I started as volunteer coordinator at OAS and I learned so much from her. She was always patient with all the questions I had, always willing to talk through ideas, and discuss how we can improve the volunteer program to inspire more volunteers to help more dogs in need. She was remarkably skilled at training new volunteers in a way that balanced being kind and approachable, while being firm about making sure trainees knew the answers to pop quizzes! Pat did so much more, being a strong advocate for the dogs and doing everything she could to provide care for them and find placement for them. We lost a truly amazing person and will continue to do good work in her honor.
Rachel Zak says
Pat made such an impact on me as a volunteer. Her compassion was beyond measure. Pat would always stop by the spa and we would chat. She would bring me some forlorn Dobie or Pittie who needed some love. I drove with her a couple times to deliver dogs she found a rescue for. And she saved so, so many “lost causes” by networking and advocating. I drove a couple Dobies to her connection in So Cal after she made all the arrangements (totally fell in love with “Velvet”). Lives saved because of Pat. And there were so, so many lives over the years.
She truly made a difference both on an individual human and animal level but also on a larger rescue and animal advocacy scale.
So many that she touched.
She will be so missed.
Maria Lo Coco and Sawyer says
Thank you Pat <3 Sawyer!!!!
Maria Lo Coco says
Dear Pat. What a phenomenal woman. I knew her at my restaurant, along with Bob, for many years. We bonded over pesto pasta, funny stories, and, of course, dog-dogs. In particular, about 5 years ago, my husband and I lost our sweet shepherd and, as Pat grieved with us, she soon began (not so ) gently urging us to once again consider adopting a dog in need. We met Sawyer, a very handsome Shepherd/Husky experiencing considerable issues with humans. Only Pat and another volunteer could make any headway with this “dented can” who was weeks from the “guillotine”. She saw something in us and decided that we were the answer for sullen Sawyer. The outcome: a most wonderful, sweet, beautiful boy who is a most incredible part of our lives. Thanks to Pat. Thanks to the many dedicated, loving, caring, selfless people that give their ALL to OAS and to saving these perfect creatures. RIP beautiful and kind woman. A true fairy Dogmother. The Rainbow Bridge will be bursting with reunions and endless play as you arrive to greet the many pups you’ve saved throughout the years. Much love, Maria, Mike and Sawyer
Steve LaChapelle says
I first met Pat in 2005 when I started volunteering at the Oakland SPCA. Pat was already an established dog volunteer there and welcomed me into the program. In 2008, we both moved over to OAS and started volunteering together again.
Pat did everything she could for the homeless dogs of Oakland. From stuffing Kongs, making promotional videos, writing and editing bios, playing dogs, fostering dogs, and donating so much time and money, Pat always did everything with a BIG smile.
Pat Luchak, you will be missed so much.
Roger Davies says
I had the honor of meeting, and interacting with Pat since she first began volunteering at the shelter in 2008.
As dog volunteers, then mentors, then crew, we volunteered together in many roles. Later as I transitioned into an IT role, my interaction with Pat was more virtual, than it was in-person. No matter the type of interaction with Pat, her passion and persistence in advocating for the animals, always came through. I knew that a call-to-action from Pat, had substance and urgency. She had that way of inspiring you to do your best, just as she did herself, and all because she cared for the animals.
The shelter has been through many changes since 2008, and many volunteers, and staff have come and gone, over that time, feeling overwhelmed, and unable to keep giving under the often intense demands of working and volunteering in a city shelter.
Pat has had the stamina, determination, and passion to keep on volunteering, and advocating for the animals, no matter what the challenges were.
RIP Pat. You will be missed, it was truly an honor to know you, and volunteer alongside you.
Kristy Lai says
I met Pat when I first started volunteering for OAS back in 2017. She was a Mentor and I was finishing up my training with her. Pat left an impression on me with the way she would ask questions and quiz the trainees with always a fierce safety for the dogs in OAS’ care. I learned so much from her and she saw something in me and recommended me to be a Dog Mentor. Pat’s energy, passion, knowledge and love for dogs and people who care for dogs is and always be awe inspiring. I’ll never forget her and her big smile and her love of all dogs – especially pitties. Miss you and rest in peace my friend.
Ellen Lynch says
I have both a heavy heart at hearing this news, while also lots of joy and smiles, thinking about Pat. I wasn’t a shelter volunteer (walked dogs at the Ford St shelter in 1979!), but spent a lot of time over the years at OAS, helping feral cats. I met Pat ages ago, and we often chatted about cats, dogs, shelter and City politics, and she was always engaged and interested. I loved that about her, and loved running into her. I hadn’t been to the shelter in a long time, but after Ann became Director, was there one day. Pat came in the lobby and we talked and laughed. With all the positive changes, Pat said, “thank goodness, I can sleep at night now!” It was so great to see her still there. Over the last year, we communicated via Next Door and messaging about various dog and cat postings. She was so deeply caring and knowledgeable, loving. Her wise spirit lives on, and will keep touching many people, cats, and of course all the dogs she was so devoted to. The work with big dogs is special. She will be missed, and will continue to be loved and smiled about.
Amy Hirschkron says
I worked on the mentor team with Pat many years ago at OAS and had so much admiration for her tireless devotion to the dogs. She was a force of nature and her memory is truly a blessing.
Carrie Fox says
Pat was an OG at OAS, a true inspiration to me. She was the one who encouraged me to become a Mentor to train new volunteers and then to be a part of the Dog Crew. She made it her personal mission to help the most vulnerable dogs. Her spirit and tenacity will be missed!
Heather says
My husband and I wanted to adopt a dog, but with our busy lives and small apartment we knew we needed to find the right one. Pat came to our rescue with our sweet baby Zazu who she was fostering. Her two pitties were so sweet and gentle and her foster Zazu was a chihuahua with a lot of attitude. Her guidance and care for us and Zazu brought our worlds together, and I couldn’t imagine our lives without Zazu. I am so thankful to Pat for all the work she did for all the animals, but especially what she did for Zazu and us.
Ally Sivalls says
Pat was one of the first people I met during my time at OAS. She welcomed me into the community with open arms, I’ll always be thankful for support and compassion.
Pat’s dedication and love for dogs is truly unmatched. She was a pillar, a staple, a legend. Her desire to improve OAS was infectious, her perseverance contributed to saving so many lives!
Animal welfare can be a challenging field, but Pat managed to always have a smile on. I’ll always carry that with me… along with thinking of her every time I meet a Dobie. 🙂
You will be incredibly missed, Pat.
Emily Fox says
I am so grateful to have known Pat. Her generosity was unparalleled. I will miss her dearly. Her heart’s work at OAS will continue in her name. Deepest condolences to her family.
Set says
I met Pat over 10 years ago at OAS and she was always so kind and generous and caring to all the animals and people at the shelter. She really loved the Dobermans and Pit bulls but also spent time with the small dogs and brought veggies for the bunnies. And when not working directly with the dogs she helped with copy editing drafts for the dogs adoption pages. I will really miss her and hope her family finds comfort in all their beautiful memories of her.
Dawn Pieper says
Pat was a rare gem. She was like no other. Although I was a cat volunteer, she quickly wormed her way into my heart with her kindness, compassion, and dedication. She was always asking me how the cats at the shelter were doing. She cared all across the board. She was a huge supporter of Cat Town as well. Her selflessness is to be commended. Last year she was selling her bicycle that she “only rode once” even though her husband bought it for her in 1995. I walked to her house, checked it out and said “Sold, how much would you like for it?” She said, “Nothing, make a donation to FOAS and to Cat Town”. I will ride that bike with Pat on my shoulder now.
Kelly Haeussler says
I am so very sorry to hear about Pat passing. She was an amazing mentor when I volunteered. She provided assistance via email when I was trying to help out a neighbor or friend interested in an adoptable animal. I’m so sad for the staff and volunteers who will miss her. She has changed the lives of so many pups!! Rest in power Pat!
Laura Wheat says
I spent many Monday nights with Pat there at the shelter when I worked my shift. It was always a welcomed site, especially as a new volunteer, when I saw her personalized pibble license plate in the parking lot. She was kind and patient with all humans and animals. Her gift to connect with every and any dog amazed me. She will be greatly missed. We were lucky to have her.
leslie smith says
Pat was so incredibly gracious and helpful when I needed help ensuring a better future for a backyard Oakland dog. So much gratitude for her and the kindness she showed so many living creatures. What a light we have lost.
Uly Silkey says
Pat was a good soul.
She was my mentor and friend during my tenure as a volunteer at OAS.
I am curious what will happen to her pup she adopted?
Farewell Miss P. May all the dogs welcome you up there and give you licks and kisses.
Mendocino Steele says
Pat was my mentor when I first began volunteering at OAS many years ago and for my first year there we shared the same shift. She welcomed me both with kindness and the kind of exacting standards I appreciate. I understood when I met her that she was a force to be reckoned with; immense knowledge, endless compassion, and tireless devotion made her the best advocate for and friend to the vulnerable dogs at OAS. My admiration of her only grew the longer I knew her: I remain in awe of her and will never forget her. She changed so many lives (dog and human) in wonderful ways and left the world an immeasurably better place.
Kathleen Rolinson says
Pat is legend at OAS. Her passion for animals and dedication was unmatched. Pat’s favorite of course – Dobies!! I would catch her on the way in and say ‘Check out the Dobie in G-ward’ – but she had and was working on rescue placement already – like a 6th sense for the breed. Pat attended so many offsites and would talk up the dogs for potential adopters – and fiercely defend them against erroneous, biased comments. Her editing skills came in handy so often and as I type this I think “Oh God, Pat is going to want to correct so much of this”.
We’ve lost a legend and an amazing human.
Krisanne Combs says
Even though I was a cat person, Pat welcomed me into the Oakland Animal Services community with an open heart from day one! I loved crossing paths with her during our volunteer shifts and sharing stories about the people and animals that we’d encountered that day. Pat brought such joyful energy to her work with animals and humans, and behind that bright smile was a tenacity and strength that was not to be underestimated! We’ll miss Pat terribly and she leaves a huge hole in our hearts.
Julianne Chai says
Pat was a fixture and a pillar at OAS. She was not only a mentor to the volunteers but also did everything she could to provide the best care for the dogs at the shelter. Her compassion for people and animals knew no boundaries. I feel very lucky that she was my mentor and friend.
We are so lucky to have Pat as long as we did but also heartbroken that Pat won’t be at the shelter.
We love you Pat. Going to miss you very very much.