Philly shelter encourages animal enthusiasts to pass on the act of kindness by aiding pet owners to provide food and shelter for dogs and cats.
The Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) has launched a new initiative, "Paw It Forward," to provide financial assistance to pet owners who are struggling to afford essential pet care. The program aims to prevent the surrender of pets due to financial hardship, while preserving the important bond between pets and their owners.
Paw It Forward is a comprehensive fundraising and assistance program designed to help Philadelphia pet owners in need. The program offers a safety net of services, including low-cost or subsidized veterinary care, temporary foster housing, behavioral support, and pet food, litter, and other supplies through a pet food pantry program.
The goal of Paw It Forward is to raise more than $30,000, with a special emphasis on monetary donations to maintain the safety net services that keep families and pets together. If the fundraising goal is exceeded, every dollar contributed above $30,000 will be doubled.
PAWS is urging animal lovers to join the program by donating, adopting, fostering, sharing, attending events, or partnering with PAWS. Monetary donations contribute to subsidized vet care, the rescue of sick or injured animals, and the maintenance of the pet food pantry. Adopting or fostering pets through PAWS provides a home for animals in need, while sharing stories on social media raises awareness and attending PAWS events like adoption fairs or fundraisers offers opportunities to support the cause in person. Businesses can also partner with PAWS by sponsoring, fundraising, or donating services or supplies.
The safety net program is part of PAWS' broader efforts to prevent the break of the bond between people and their pets due to financial difficulties. The program aims to enhance the mental and physical health of pet owners, improve the well-being of the community, strengthen social bonds, and protect the bond between people and their pets regardless of their circumstances or socioeconomic status.
In Philadelphia, 20% of residents live below the poverty line, many of whom have pets. PAWS' Cory Topel stated that the program aims to prevent the break of the bond between people and their pets due to financial difficulties. The safety net program distributes food and offers free veterinary clinic services to these residents, helping to keep animals in the hands of their owners and improving the lives of both pets and their owners.
For more information about the safety net program and Paw It Forward, visit PAWS' "Paw It Forward" site. With your support, PAWS can continue to make a difference in the lives of Philadelphia's pets and their owners.
The Paw It Forward program, initiated by PAWS, extends assistance not only to veterinary care but also includes provisions for temporary home arrangements and behavioral support – all aimed at preserving the bond between pets and their owners. In an effort to bolster this initiative, PAWS encourages contributions towards home-and-garden items, such as pet beds, toys, and food, thereby ensuring a comfortable lifestyle for pets in need.
