PAWS Connections
Four Orphaned River Otters
Reunite with the Wild
The journey of these otters began under difficult circumstances. Two of the otters were abandoned after their dens were disturbed by humans looking to displace the animals from under the decks of households, where sadly they are considered by some to be nuisance animals. Such disruptions, frequently carried out by pest control companies, can cause otter mothers to flee, leaving their young vulnerable and alone. After receiving a call from a homeowner who discovered the abandoned pups, the PAWS team sprang into action to ensure their survival.
While at PAWS, the otters received round-the-clock care and transitioned from drinking formula to a diet of fish and other solid foods. Soon, they were joined by two more orphaned pups that were transferred to PAWS from another
A river otter pup sleeping after a feeding session at PAWS.
Moments after being released, the otters explore their new surroundings.
Empowering Youth
Educating youth about compassionate care for cats and dogs, and coexisting with wildlife, is crucial for fostering a harmonious and empathetic community in Washington state. Early education on these topics instills a sense of responsibility, kindness, and respect for all living creatures, which can lead to a more humane and environmentally conscious society.
Understanding the needs of companion animals, such as regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, exercise, and socialization, helps children develop empathy and a sense of duty towards their furry friends. Teaching kids about the importance of spaying and neutering reduces the overpopulation of stray animals, leading to fewer animals suffering on the streets or in shelters.
Additionally, educating youth on how to coexist with wildlife is vital, especially in a state like Washington, which is home to diverse ecosystems and a variety of wildlife species. Lessons on avoiding humanwildlife conflicts, understanding the natural behaviors of wild animals, and the importance of preserving habitats can empower young people to make decisions that support wildlife conservation.
The PAWS Education Team has made significant strides in this area, expanding their reach and impact through comprehensive programs. In 2023, their efforts reached 1,798 young people—a 42% increase from 2022. Programs, like our flagship Kids Who CareSM , engaged over a thousand fourth-grade students, teaching PAWS core values
of compassion, commitment, kindness, trust, and respect. Niched workshops for different age groups and specialized service projects further enhanced students’ abilities to connect with the animals of PAWS and their community.
Looking forward, PAWS Education is excited to launch its first adult education course, Post-Dog Adoption Support, a resource for families with newly adopted dogs. Our team is continually evolving and expanding our programming.
Do you have a fresh idea for us? We’d love to hear it!
Contact education@paws.org.
Register today at paws.org/SummerPrograms
Cover Story — continued
wildlife facility. The PAWS team worked to simulate the natural conditions the otters would face in the wild, helping them develop crucial survival skills. From learning to swim and locate food, to socializing with other otters, the pups’ time at PAWS was carefully managed to prepare them for a successful return to their natural habitats.
River otters are adaptable creatures commonly found in fresh, brackish, and saltwater habitats across North America. They primarily prey on fish, crustaceans, and other small animals, making them integral to the health of aquatic ecosystems. However, their survival is threatened by trapping, pollution, vehicle collisions, and habitat loss due to waterfront development. These threats underscore the importance of conservation efforts and the role of wildlife rehabilitation centers like PAWS.
As the day of their release arrived, there was a palpable sense of excitement and accomplishment among the PAWS team. “The otters played together in the river for a few minutes, observed by us from a safe distance, before bounding away into the thick vegetation,” recalls PAWS Wildlife Naturalist, Anthony Denice. Watching the otters dive into their new environment was both a joyous and hopeful moment, symbolizing a second chance at life in the wild. It also serves as a reminder of the impact humans can have on wildlife, both positive and negative. These four otters are a powerful example of resilience and the positive outcomes that can result from dedicated wildlife rehabilitation efforts.
Back in the natural habitat, the otter pauses for a quick scan before resuming exploring.
While at PAWS, students are sure to have a hands-on experience.
Max, a one-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix, found a new lease on life after being transferred to PAWS from Texas last fall. His journey from an overcrowded shelter to the loving arms of his adopter, David, has been remarkable.
David, who has had many amazing dogs in his life, recalls the moment he met Max as if it were destiny. “I realized that there was something different about this dog who watched me quietly while all of the other dogs were going nuts,” David wrote in a letter to PAWS. “I had decided that this was the dog for me before I looked at his name.”
David and Max: A
Marvelous PAWS Match
“I have no idea what it took for Max and I get together, but I thank whatever powers there are that it came to pass.”
The bond between David and Max has only grown stronger since that fateful day in November. Despite initial challenges—like getting carsick on the way home—Max quickly adapted to his new life. “He got the hang of it and now enjoys our daily journeys,” David shared. Max has become an integral part of David’s life, accompanying him everywhere he goes. Max even joins David at the group therapy sessions he hosts for men battling addiction. “Max is my partner in that effort,” writes David, “All of the men enjoy his presence.”
At home, Max is like a constant shadow to David. “If I am watching TV, he is at my feet. If I am using my computer, he is at my feet. When I go to bed at night, he is next to me,” David explained. Max even has a special nest in a closet where he retreats until David turns off his reading light, after which he snuggles up close for sleep.
Max’s adventurous spirit shines through when he’s outside. With a five-acre field at his disposal, Max feels compelled to round up the 11 horses that share the space with him and several other dogs. “He runs at their feet barking loudly,” David recalls fondly, “They are all used to other dogs and are not impressed by this ambitious pup!”
Despite Max’s occasional habit of bringing back horse droppings as gifts, David is endlessly grateful for their bond. “I have no idea about what it took for Max and I to get
together, but I thank whatever powers there are that it came to pass,” David expressed. In this heartwarming tale of rescue, David and Max embody the tagline at PAWS: People helping animals and vice versa.
Thank you for making these success stories possible with your support of PAWS.
You can help save another animal in need with a gift today!
Max takes a quick sniff of a dog toy while on a walk on the PAWS campus.
—David, Max’s Adopter
One-year-old Max poses for a portrait while at PAWS, shortly before adoption.
David and Max on adoption day.
From the Heart
PAWS’ Promise
PAWS helps cats, dogs and wild animals go home and thrive. We do this by rehabilitating orphaned and injured wildlife, sheltering and adopting homeless cats and dogs, and educating the community to inspire compassionate action for animals.
PAWS mini magazine
Issue 17, Spring 2024
Editor in Chief: Mick Szydlowski
Writers: Mick Szydlowski
Graphic Designer: Lynn Jefferson
Photographers: Anthony Denice, Elliott Ralph, Lynn Jefferson
PAWS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and relies on community support to conduct our work to help animals.
PAWS, PAWS Cat City, PAWSwalk, Kids Who Care and PAWS Academy are service marks owned by the Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS). © 2024 Progressive Animal Welfare Society.
Privacy Policy: PAWS respects our donors’ and friends’ confidentiality. We never release our mailing list. PAWS is a member magazine. Membership is available with a donation of $35 or more. For change of address notification, call (425) 412-4041.
Contact PAWS: (425) 787-2500
Adoption Information x435
Animal Cruelty x861
Donor Relations x441
Foster Care Program x822
Lost Pets x567
Found Pets x580
Volunteer Information x230
Wildlife Center x817
paws.org
Dear PAWS Friends,
I am occasionally enlisted to ensure that a donor’s wish comes true, even after their death. Susan Vesel of Bothell passed away last year, and as an avid animal-lover, her hope was that the sale of her home could benefit PAWS. Her friend, Peter Holmes, asked me to help.
With the pro-bono assistance of PAWS Board Member and attorney Erica Wolf, I was named by the court as executor of her estate. The house needed upgrades prior to being listed, and realtor Kimberly Hobbs of Windermere donated her expertise to oversee the project. She sold it within four days of listing and generously gifted her commission to PAWS!
It turns out that the homebuyers foster dogs at another animal shelter and were attracted by the home’s sizable backyard. Peter Holmes remarked,
Board of Directors
Joe Grube, Chair
Jen Evans, Vice Chair
C. Han Kim, Treasurer
Katie Jordan, Secretary
Josh Amato, Norm Arkans, Joanna Grist, Heather Hager, Steve Hall, Jill Jones, Damian King, Ju Lee, Bob Mahon, Eddie Pasatiempo, Strom Peterson, Peter Schrappen, Jim Soriano, Chuck Stempler, Rebekah Strausbaugh, Karen Trujillo, Kris Tsujikawa, Muriel Van Housen, Jennie Warmouth, Erica Wolf
CEO
Heidi Wills Yamada
PAWS Companion Animal Shelter 15305 44th Ave W Lynnwood, WA 98087 (425) 787-2500
PAWS Wildlife Rehabilitation Center 13508 State Route 9 SE Snohomish, WA 98296 (425) 412-4040
PAWS Cat City 5200 Roosevelt Way NE, Suite B Seattle, WA 98105 (206) 782-1700
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“Sounds like a great fit for Sue’s home. She would be delighted about the foster dogs.” Peter also added, “I’m really happy and relieved everything came together for Sue and PAWS. I’m certain she’s at peace knowing her wishes were respected. Her home will be enjoyed by another family, and her gift for PAWS’ furry friends is a beautiful legacy.”
To include PAWS in your estate planning, our tax ID is 91-6073154.
Sincerely,
Heidi Wills Yamada CEO
Give your old vehicle a new purpose and an abandoned animal a second chance! Donating your vehicle to PAWS is easy, convenient, and lifesaving.
Avoid costly repairs and the hassle of selling, and get a deduction on your taxes. In return, you will help provide compassionate care for abandoned, injured, and orphaned animals. Get started today at paws.org/vehicles.
Don’t Miss These Events
PAWS Youth Programs Register online at paws.org/KidsEvents
8/5 | Animal Allies & Advocacy High School Mini Camp 9th-12th Graders
8/12 | Animal Allies & Advocacy Middle School Mini Camp 6-8th Graders
8/19 | Wildlife Warriors: A Roleplaying Game Mini Camp 9th-12th Graders A BENEFIT FOR ANIMALS presented by Amazon OCT 5, 2024 Fremont Studios | Seattle Join Farah Jadran from KING 5 and auctioneer John Curley for a night of celebration! Learn more at paws.org/wildnight
Susan Vesel and her dog, Bentley, who was lovingly adopted by Peter Holmes.