Understanding Author's Tone in Animal Shelter Passage

In the following passage, the author describes a day spent volunteering at an animal shelter:

"Arriving at the shelter felt like stepping into a different world. The chaos of barking dogs and soft meows enveloped me, and I found myself standing before a sea of eager faces and wagging tails. Each animal yearned for attention, and I felt a wave of compassion wash over me. The volunteers worked tirelessly, their laughter mingling with the sounds of hope and desperation. As I walked through the rows of cages, my heart ached for the furry souls who needed homes. I quickly learned that this was more than just a shelter; it was a sanctuary, a place where love and care thrived even in the most challenging circumstances. Starting with a bright smile, I took on the responsibility of feeding and playing with the animals, reveling in the joy it brought both them and me."