Just before sitting down to write this letter, I received a call from a local shelter begging Lakeshore PAWS to take three dogs that were facing euthanasia as a result of overcrowding.
Within 20 minutes of the call, our staff and two volunteers were on their way to transport the dogs to our rescue where they will be given food, shelter, exercise, attention and most importantly, a second chance.
In the past two weeks, we have received an average of three to five calls a day from owners surrendering their dogs and shelters that are busting at the seams. This influx of dogs happens every year around the 4th of July and it never gets easier to stomach. Maybe you can help us change that.
I’m writing to you because Lakeshore PAWS needs your help now more than ever. Think of it as being recruited for the Lakeshore PAWS emergency response team. We need you to join us on our mission.
We are looking for dedicated volunteers and fosters who can commit to helping us walk dogs, staff our events, clean and do laundry, organize supplies, and show dogs to potential adopters.
(Link to volunteer application.)
If you are already a volunteer but haven’t been by lately, I encourage you from the bottom of my heart to get back involved. For those of you who aren’t volunteers, will you consider spending a few hours a week at our shelter to have a direct impact on the lives of our dogs? Will you consider joining our team?
Finally, I want to thank the wonderful and dedicated volunteers who come in every week. You are not just making a difference, you are the difference. It is a privilege to work alongside you and work towards a cause we all care about so deeply. Thank you for all that you do.
What would we do without the wonderful Beebe family? This group has helped out in nearly every way possible, including cleaning, events, hanging out with dogs and even opening their home to foster dogs, including those in greatest need and suffering. They are a beautiful example for us all. Thanks so much from us and the dogs.
