PAWS Magazine

Issue 72, Spring 2009

From the Heart

Dear Friends,

Spring is all around us, from the songbirds on PAWS' campus performing their mating songs and building their nests, to the baby squirrels, puppies and kittens already arriving on our doorstep. So far this year, we've placed twice the number of orphaned kittens in foster care than we did the same time last year.

Each year, PAWS cares for several thousand animals, and more than two thirds are babies. We nearly double our workforce with dedicated volunteers to provide the most basic needs for these babies, and many others. From bear cubs to kittens, 40 or more different diets are prepared each day, life-saving surgeries are performed, little ones are bottle-fed and kept warm—it's a whirlwind of activity and a responsibility we don't take lightly.

In order to make sure the animals receive the highest care possible, we need to keep our cupboards stocked with supplies. If you would like to help collect some or can spread the word, you can download a comprehensive list at paws.org under the Donate tab. Here are a few items most in need:

• Digital thermometers, designed for small animals
• Gift cards to home improvement stores to maintain our wildlife enclosures
• 20-gallon aquariums with tight-fitting lids to house wild baby mammals
• Frontline® Plus for dogs, used to control fleas, ticks and lice on squirrels, Mountain Beavers and deer fawns
• Gently used towels, blankets and sheets—to use as bedding
• KMR® and Esbiliac® formula to help kittens and puppies grow strong
• Canned pet food, especially Wellness®, Nutro® and Science Diet®
• Science Diet®, Nutro Max®, Sensible Choice®, and Costo's Kirkland® dry food
• Unscented, non-clumping cat litter (Safeway brand and Tidy Cat® are great)
• Vicks® liquid vapo-steam for helping sick kitties breathe better
• Laser pointers, and soft, washable cat toys
• "Thinking toys" to mentally stimulate dogs in our care, such as Puzzle Cube® and Kongs®.

Someone recently referred to PAWS as a "champion for animals." As I watch our team move throughout the day, diligently and compassionately providing for each animal, and advocating on behalf of others, I have to agree.

As you join us with your generosity as a volunteer, a donor or helping to spread the message of compassion, you are a champion for animals, too. Thank you for being a part of this important work of saving lives.

With gratitude,

Annette Laico
Executive Director

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