PAAWS ANTIGUA: GIVING HOPE FOR A BETTER TOMORROW

PAAWS ANTIGUA: GIVING HOPE FOR A BETTER TOMORROW

For animal lovers visiting Antigua and Barbuda, the large number of roaming dogs and cats – some not in the best of health – can be tough to witness.

Things like regular grooming, trips to the vet, quality food and adequate medication that are par for the course in other parts of the world, are often not part of the average island dog’s existence in a country where many families struggle to feed themselves.

Happily, there are a handful of NGOs working tirelessly to unite those most in need with loving permanent homes. Friendly society PAAWS was born in 1996 out of a desire to curtail the number of strays seen on streets nationwide – and an inability to turn a blind eye to suffering.

Today, the donation-dependent entity runs a rescue and rehoming shelter in Parham – currently home to around 50 dogs and 25 cats – and has successfully rehomed almost 3,000 animals over the years.

Luxury Locations Magazine dropped in to find out more.

How do animals end up in PAAWS’ care?

Just a brief jaunt around the island will reveal we have our work cut out. As much as we wish we could help them all, we just don’t have the funds or the facilities. We prioritise those who have been injured, abandoned or abused. Some are surrendered by people who can no longer keep them. The Covid pandemic saw an influx of dogs into our care by families who had to make the heart-breaking decision to let them go when their finances took a hit.

Why should I adopt a pet from PAAWS?

All pets that are old enough are spayed/ neutered and fully vaccinated before being rehomed. Taking action to prevent them from breeding is especially important to reduce the number of strays that end up on the streets. Adopting from us also means avoiding many common illnesses, like parvo which can be deadly for unjabbed puppies.

How do we get to the root of the issue?

PAAWS works closely with the Antigua Spay & Neuter Clinic which performs dozens of low-cost procedures a month. Not only does it offer people on limited means the chance to stop their pets breeding at a rate that’s heavily discounted, sometimes free, the clinic also carries out educational campaigns, providing medical advice to local residents and teaching children how to care for animals.

How can I do more to help?

PAAWS is open to visitors looking for a new member of their family from Tuesday to Saturday from 10am-2pm. Call or email us to make an appointment to visit. We are always grateful for cash donations, along with gifts of dog and cat food and medication. Financial donations can be made directly through our website via PayPal. Sometimes our supporters hold fundraisers on our behalf.

I’ve got some spare time on my hands. Can I volunteer?

Our canine residents love to be taken for walks, which in turn enhances their social skills and leash training, and improves their chance of finding a forever home. Volunteers are also needed to help clean out the pens, and socialise shy new intakes.

Can I board my pet with you when I go on vacation?

Yes! We offer both short-term and longterm boarding services at very affordable rates. Your pet will get a shared or single pen which is regularly cleaned, plus meals, daily exercise and lots of love.

Shelter manager Colin Quinn

How is PAAWS funded?

With no government assistance, PAAWS runs entirely on donations and fundraising initiatives. We organise fundraisers such as bingo, quiz nights and talent shows and we also ask for a small adoption fee for each pet we rehome. We are exceedingly grateful to our loyal supporters who have continued to make regular donations – even through the pandemic – and without whom we would simply not be able to operate.

How can I get in touch?

Visit www.paawsantigua.com or call +1 268 561-1484 for more information or to arrange a visit. PAAWS is located in Parham, a stone’s throw from the primary school. Our four-legged residents love to extend a hearty welcome to visitors, so if you need any extra directions just listen out. n

Former Mr Antiguaand animal loverKenny Jacobs with PAAWS rescue pup Peanut