What a Turnaround!

When I first started as a regular volunteer at the PAWS animal shelter in early 2001, place was in such a need of help and attention it was hard to know where to start and even harder to know when to stop.

The shelter itself was in poor state of repair, animals often suffered from stress of over-crowded enclosures, fights were frequent and infection diseases spread like wildfire. Volunteers were more likely to be found scrubbing cages than socializing with the animals because even the basic aspects of animals care needed the extra manpower. Well meaning folks still visited and adopted animals but PAWS pets were sadly renowned for being a bit risk health-wise and few were neutered. It was a time of many upsets and frustrations.

Yet it is said that good things comes to those who wait, and as a stubborn volunteer who still around 5 years on – I am so happy, relieved and proud that the shelter has managed such a complete turn around this past year ! The Shelter itself is cleaner and more orderly, brighter and less overcrowded. But true progress may be seen in the animals themselves. They are happier, healthier, better scocialised and much more likely to be successfully adopted.

Of course we cannot afford to rest as there is still much to be done. PAWS relies on volunteers and donations as much as ever. As one thing is finished there are always many more for ideas and projects to begin. Please come along and join our volunteer team. Help is needed for onsite and offsite task – animal care, adoptions, welcoming visitors, booths, education, fundraising, fostering…..

Requirements – Energy, Enthusiasm, Humor, Patience and Love – which will be returned to you in abundance by your new animal and human friends.

PAWS is finally a place of hope and smiles – join us ! Call the office for details!