Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) became an independent organization in 2009 to play a leading role in Philadelphia’s owner retention services. They have two busy low-cost spay/neuter and wellness clinics located at opposite ends of the city, and working with Dogs Trust USA, are providing subsidized low-cost veterinary care to around 200 dogs with treatable conditions who are at risk of relinquishment. They will be targeting owners by working with the local municipal shelter, an independent community pet help desk at the municipal shelter and the largest human hunger relief organization in their region. It is hoped that providing alternatives to surrender for owners will contribute towards a continued decline in intake and euthanasia rates at local shelters, with the ultimate goal being Philadelphia achieving ‘no-kill’ city status.
