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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

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