PAWS has been receiving dozens of phone calls, e-mails and in-person inquiries regarding the status of our companion animal shelter. These residents are under the impression that the loss of the Lynnwood stray animal contract is forcing us to close our doors.
Thankfully, that is not the case. The Lynnwood stray animal contract is just one of several that PAWS has with different cities and municipalities. Much like a small business, we have many customers. While one of these customers may decide to do business with another organization, we have several others that will keep PAWS strong and viable. More importantly, contracts with these cities only represent a little more than 5 percent of our annual operating budget. The majority of our annual budget is funded by the support of generous private donations, grants, special events and adoption fees.
PAWS will still provide quality care for more than 6,000 cats, dogs and wild animals in 2014. Our education program will reach more than 5,000 students next year, and our dedicated volunteer base of more than 1,000 remains one of the largest of any animal shelter in the state. We remain committed to the rescue, rehabilitation, release and rehoming of the many animals who come to us each year for help.
However, starting on Jan. 1, any stray animal found within the city limits of Lynnwood will need to be transported to the Everett Animal Shelter. PAWS will continue to accept strays found within the city limits of our other nine contract communities, which are the cities of Brier, Bothell, Kenmore, Lake Forest Park, Mill Creek, Mountlake Terrace, Mukilteo, Shoreline and Woodinville. Citizens who need to find a new home their cat or dog, regardless of where they live, can contact the PAWS re-homing program for assistance.
We also encourage all Lynnwood residents in search of their new “best friend” to visit the wonderful animals waiting at PAWS.
Thank you to everyone who supports PAWS and cares for animals. We could not do it without you.
Annette Laico
Executive Director, PAWS
Lynnwood
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