Ellwood Thompson’s Blog

Although I’ve been involved in pet rescue off and on for years, I never really volunteered for an animal rescue organization. I did things on my own. If I saw a dog or cat (mostly dogs because they’re easier to catch) that was lost or a stray, I would pick them up. Next, a trip to the vet - there a few here in Richmond that will discount their fees for people helping strays. Then I would either foster then until I found a home for them or I would foster them until one of the local humane groups or a non-euthanizing shelter could take them. I’ve had to take a few years off because I have a 5 pets now (three dogs, two cats - all but one was rescued) and one of them does not get along well with dogs he doesn’t know. So needless to say I have been sad about this and looking for a way that I can help. Enter Paws to the Rescue.I love Paws and can’t say enough wonderful things about this group. Jenn, an amazing woman in South Carolina and her network of volunteers up and down the east coast have saved hundreds of dogs and puppies and the occasionally kitty. SC and NC state and county shelters still use two barbaric, totally inhumane forms of euthanasia that have been outlawed in most states, including VA. Jenn and Paws to the Rescue get as many animals out of these shelters that euthanize up to three times a week. Then they hook up with rescue groups and non-euthanizing shelters from PA to Maine where there are more adoption opportunities and then the transports begin! Through their forum, Paws to the Rescue advertises the need for drivers. Volunteer drivers take 2-4 dogs and/or a crate of puppies, depending on the size of their vehicle and how many animals are being transported that weekend. Drivers meet in parking lots to hand off their four-legged passengers to the next driver; each route is about 1 hour. So, you dedicate 2 hours of a Saturday and you save several lives! I can’t think of a better way to spend the day. It’s been so great - I love doing it! Here’s a great little video they put together. Tissues may be required.  

For more info, check out their website http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/SC204.html——————————– Who We ArePaws to the Rescue helps get animals from high kill shelters to approved rescues. We help pull animals scheduled for euthanasia and get them into temporary foster care or boarding, get necessary vaccinations for transport, and then set up transport to get these animals to safety. One of our main focuses is pregnant dogs and moms with newborns. Shelters are usually not equipped to handle birthing and new puppies, so sadly they are usually the first to be euthanized. Want to help…but don’t live near us?We are always looking for transport help all over the east coast! If you are interested in being added to our list of contacts, please e-mail jennaluv2@yahoo.com. So many lives have been saved by our wonderful transporters! ——————————– So, if you’re interested in transporting, please email Jenn at the email address above. You’ll be glad you did!! Remember - animals are not disposable - please share the message: Spay and Neuter Your Pets!