A cause for PAWS

PAWS garners the support of local businesses to construct a brand new shelter for animals in need

Vicki McDonald welcomes Sandy the staffordshire to Claudia's Place. Sandy was found recently wandering the road near Nelson, B.C. — Danielle Cameron photo

The Creston Pet Adoption and Welfare Society (PAWS) has a special project on the go. Through the unwavering aid of volunteers and local businesses, the society has launched Claudia’s Place Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre.

“(Businesses) have supported us,” said Vicki McDonald, “by sponsoring weekly pet ads in the local newspaper, donating and giving us discounts on services, building materials and pet supplies (and) assisting our fundraising activities.”

The shelter is a work in progress, but it already has an impressive design—with specialized areas to meet the varied needs of animals that PAWS accommodates.

“The shelter will provide services to the public including pet care education, training, walking trails, even provisions for helping livestock and other animals,” said McDonald. “The . . . volunteers also . . . provide resources and assistance in the event of a local emergency or disaster.”

Even in extreme cases such as the 2002 Topaz Creek rescue operation, PAWS volunteers have stepped up to the plate.

The new shelter is named for a founding PAWS member who dreamed of such a facility. In a tragic accident, Claudia Grimstead lost her life along with her rescued dog, Lily, before seeing her dream realized, but clearly she hasn’t been forgotten.

Update: We are pleased to announce that “Sandy” (now known by his real name, Spaz) the staffordshire shown in the above photo, has since been joyfully reunited with his human family.