Dear Lakeshore PAWS community,
We're nearing the end of 2019 and steadily inching closer to our grand total of 5,000 adoptions since 2011! When I think about the difference Lakeshore PAWS has made in the community, I am overwhelmed with gratitude and pride. Thanks to you, thousands of dogs that would have otherwise been fighting the cold of winter will be spending the holidays in warm homes with stockings hanging over the fireplace. Well, I hope I'm not the only one buying stocking stuffers for their pets, anyway!
Yet despite our many success stories, I feel challenged. In the world of animal welfare, the holidays can be extremely difficult. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 3.3 million dogs are brought into shelters nationwide each year, the majority coming in during the winter months. Out of that 3.3 million, over 20% of the dogs are euthanized. Although this number has been steadily decreasing every year, it reminds me that we still have work to do and we’re going to need your help.
Over the next three months, Lakeshore PAWS will relieve overcrowding at local rescues by taking in as many dogs as possible and giving them the second chance that they deserve. Donations are particularly impactful during this time because it allows us to buy additional resources for the influx of dogs. If you would like to give an in-kind donation, you can visit our wish list here. In addition, you can do your holiday shopping through Amazon Smile and Amazon will donate a percentage of your purchase to our cause. View instructions below on how to access Amazon Smile and select Lakeshore PAWS as your nonprofit of choice.
Aside from donations, we are always in need of volunteers and fosters to join our team. Fostering is especially helpful over the holidays! Not only will it bring a little more joy to your household, but it’ll also free up a kennel that can be filled with another dog in need.
On behalf of myself and the staff at Lakeshore PAWS, I want to express our deepest gratitude for your generosity. When I am counting my blessings at the Thanksgiving table this year, I am going to count the kindness and support of the Lakeshore PAWS’ family twice. I hope everyone has an amazing Thanksgiving full of fantastic food, family festivities, and furry friends. Thank you!
Sincerely,
Jeanne Sommer
co-founder and executive director
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