Giving Tuesday is the day to remember – and support – the many non-profit organizations that make a difference in our community all year long.
PAWS Lynnwood — in partnership with Wings of Rescue and New Beginnings of Merced, California — has added a special twist to this year’s Giving Tuesday as it turned the tables to give the gift of life, love and the promise of a forever home to a very special group of at-risk rescue dogs and cats.
“At PAWS we’ve re-named today as Rescue Tuesday,” said PAWS spokesperson Laura Follis, who along with a crew of other volunteers drove to Arlington Airport Tuesday afternoon to meet a Wings of Rescue flight carrying 77 dogs and cats from Merced County, California.
“In California shelters, homeless cats and dogs are at risk of being euthanized due to overcrowding,” explained Follis. “PAWS has space to accommodate these animals due to high demand from our animal-loving community. They will be adopted into loving homes in the days and weeks ahead.”
By working together, the three organizations form a unique and unbeatable team. New Beginnings of Merced, a non-profit that works closely with local animal shelters but does not operate shelters itself, identifies the animals in need. Wings of Rescue, a non-profit operating since 2012 with the motto, “Let the fur fly,” is a group of volunteer pilots and animal lovers who transport these pets to safe havens like PAWS Lynnwood. PAWS provides needed medical attention, spay/neuter services, and — most importantly — places these pets in permanent, loving homes.
According to Follis, the animals flown in Tuesday will be featured on the PAWS adoption website in two to three days, and most will be placed in homes within two to three weeks.
“The average cost of care from intake through adoption is $380 for these newly arrived cats and dogs,” explained Follis. “Please consider donating to PAWS at PAWS.org/GivingTuesday.”
And it’s not too late to give. According to Follis, all gifts received this week will be counted as part of Giving Tuesday. Of course, your donations and support are welcome at any time.
— By Larry Vogel
Thank you, Larry Vogel, for covering this important community rescue effort to save these beautiful dogs and cats. Your wonderful article and captivating photos tell an inspiring local story of these special efforts to bring joy to people and animals in need this holiday season.
Thank you Heidi! I didn’t realize I was photographing you until I got home and saw the pictures. It’s been many years since we worked together while you were on Council. It was always a pleasure. Great that our paths crossed once again! Take care, and happy holidays! -LV
It was great to see you again, Larry! Wishing you the happiest of holidays, too. I look forward to our paths crossing again in the new year. And you know where to go if you are ever looking for a furry companion!
Many thanks to any and everyone who rescues, take care of, ready the furry ones for adoption, and remember Love is everything. Alice Hill Wells Wilmington NC
PAWS is so important for us and the animals to be helped and rescued. Thank you for writing
this article!