PAWS forms for sake of area strays

Group spins off from Perquimans SPCA

The group formerly known as the Perquimans County SPCA has regrouped after several members left last spring to form a regional organization.

Local residents working for the betterment of animals now have formed the Perquimans Animal Welfare Society or PAWS.

“We want to keep our focus on Perquimans County,” explained Robin Stamey, DVM, president of the new group. “The old SPCA group was originally formed for Perquimans County and we want to continue that focus.”

Stamey said three members of the former SPCA organization wanted to go regional last spring, forming AWARE. The remaining local members regrouped and formed PAWS, she added.

Officers have been elected, and the new organization is welcoming new members to join the 13 members already working for their cause. The new group is focusing on providing spay and neutering certificates for Perquimans County pet owners, supporting the local food bank for animals at Open Door, helping treat foster dogs for heart worms and other injuries, and increasing public awareness and fundraising.

“We just want this organization to be a positive force in the community,” Stamey said. “We want people to smile when they hear our name.”

New officers include Mark Mazer as vice president, Page Walker as secretary, Jackie Eason as treasurer, and Stamey as president.

Stamey encouraged others to help them provide pet food to the local food bank in an effort to help pet owners keep their pets during the harsh economy.

“We try to supply the Food Bank with pet food because quite often, those who come in to pick up their own food also need food for their pets,” she said. “This is our way of helping to keep those pets in the home rather than ending up in a shelter.”

Stamey is also treating foster dogs she’s taken in. One dog found wandering in the county had a chain embedded in its neck and required surgery to remove it, she added.

PAWS will also submit photos of pets available for adoption at the Tri-County Animal to the local newspaper . The shelter is located in Tyner. In addition, PAWS seeks to work with the Chowan and Gates SPCA groups.

They are trying to raise funds through garage sales and hope to raise awareness by taking part in Hertford’s annual Christmas parade.

Memberships in PAWS are $15 for an individual and $25 for families. There are also other levels of financial sponsorships available. For more information on PAWS, call 252-562-PETS.