May 2019 | 63
Tell us about your involvement with PAWS.
I have been with PAWS for 32 years. I was working as an
assistant manager at Quincy’s Steakhouse on Eglin Pkwy and
my personal situation called for a daytime job. PAWS needed
a kennel supervisor with management experience, and so began
my love for PAWS.
How is the organization funded?
PAWS is funded by donations, grants, fundraisers, and the
spay/neuter clinic. The Junkyard Dog Gift n Thrift is a major
fundraiser for PAWS. Animal Control is paid by contracts for
services.
What impact has PAWS had on the community in the last
year?
PAWS received a $25,000 grant to be used for the spay/neuter
of animals in our community. This money will help people
that can’t afford to have their pet sterilized. We have started a
Commit to Keep program to help people keep their pets when
difficult situations arise.
Is PAWS volunteer driven? How many?
PAWS has over 200 active volunteers. The Junkyard Dog Gift
n Thrift is run by volunteers. Many volunteers come in 7 days a
week to care for the 109 animals left here from neglect. PAWS
volunteers are awesome!
What is one thing you want readers to know about PAWS?
PAWS has set a goal to make sure all adoptable animals find
a new home. We are excited about the land donated by the
Qualls family. PAWS will focus on the best environment for the
animals as we build a new shelter, allowing more sunshine and
fresh air.
Interview with Dee Thompson
Executive Director, PAWS
PAWS is a private, non-profit organization that
presently handles more than 7,000 animals annually.
The vet clinic is now in its seventeenth year and
has been an enormous success. Since the opening in
January 1995, the clinic has sterilized over 48,000
animals. The varied and vital services provided by
PAWS include:
• Animal care and adoptions
• Microchip implants
• Animal rescue
• Lost and found services
• Humane education
• Pet cremation services
• 24-hour emergency services
• Pet therapy
• Spay/neuter clinic
• Low cost medical clinic for low-income residents
• The PAWS Junkyard Dog Gift n’ Thrift
• Pet foster care
• First Strike campaign
• Volunteer opportunities
• Doggie Dates/Sleepovers
• Animal Control
62-63 Give Care Share_PAWS.indd 2
4/25/19 9:39 AM