ANIMAL WELFARE & PROTECTION SOCIETY

METHOD OF OPERATIONS/PROGRAMS


Animal Welfare takes in dogs that are surrendered by individuals who no longer wish to accept responsibility of pet ownership or have circumstances that require they give up their pets.  Some of the animals coming into the organization's care are stays rescued and brought to the shelter by good Samaritans.  Animals may also be transferred to us from other agencies whenever we have some room.  Upon arriving at the shelter each animal is given a vaccination for communicable diseases, such as distemper and parvo.  We may also give rabies vaccinations.  If of age and if needed, the animal is spayed or neutered by Southern Colorado Spay and Neuter Clinic or local veterinarians.  If a puppy is adopted, the new owners are given a certificate for a spy or neuter surgery.  The medical treatment and population control programs are supported by the donations received.

Animal Welfare operates on a "no-kill" policy.  The animals in the shelters are provided with good care and ongoing medical attention ( regular vaccinations, heartworm medication, etc.)  until they are adopted.  Should any animal show symptoms of illness or injury, it is immediately attended to.  Grooming is done by volunteers or by professional groomers depending on the condition of the coat.  The organization strives to ensure that the animals offered for adoption are healthy and happy.

All the dogs have free access to outdoor runs for exercise and sunshine.  They are rotated for walks along the river walkway when volunteer dog walkers are available.    During the hot days of summer, wading pools are put in runs for the dogs' enjoyment. 

The shelter is open to the public 7 days a week from 9 am to 4pm except on major holidays or during very bad weather.  The telephone # is 719-543-6464. The Adoption Fee is $50


AWPS has an Emergency Veterinary Care Program that helps people in financial need to get their animals to a vet for a diagnosis and some treatment.  Funding for this program comes mainly from individual donors but occasionally we have received small grants.  The amount given for care is dependent on the type and severity of the illness or injury.  Oftentimes, the owner must make arrangements with the veterinarian for additional payments.  We currently have a $500 donation from Wells Fargo for this program.

AWPS has received a grant from PETsMART Charities to offer any household making less than $25,000 per year a low Income Spay/Neuter certificate to get any cat or dog spayed or neutered for $5.00.  The program runs from May 2005 to May 2006.  Applications may be picked up at the shelter - 3420 West 8th St.  (off  Pueblo Blvd. and 11th St.)

Any person adopting a dog from AWPS may, at no charge, take their dog to obedience training classes offered by a n AWPS Board member.

Animal Welfare participates in PETsMART's national adoptathons and also takes a few dogs to PETsMART on other weekends to give the animals more exposure.  Volunteers to help with this activity are welcome.


ANIMAL WELFARE & PROTECTION SOCIETY

FUNDRAISING ACTIVITIES


Spring Plant Sale

     On the Saturday after Mother's Day, Animal Welfare holds its annual plant sale.  There are no expenses for this fundraiser as everything is donated.  The majority of the annuals, perennials and hanging baskets are donated by Crites Greenhouse.  Martin's Greenhouse  contributes many more flats and baskets and Foxes contributes several flats.  Many members and supporters bring potted houseplants and plants from their gardens.  In addition, a Board Member , Carolyn Christopher makes and donates ceramic animal pots and garden items.  About a month before the sale, the pots are filled with soil and annuals donated by Crites Greenhouse and left at the greenhouse to be cared for until the sale.  Even lunches for the volunteer workers are provided  ( All Seasons Catering).  Advertisement in the newspaper is generously donated by the Chieftain.

Fall Golf Tournament

     Each September, AWPS holds a golf tournament.  Many local businesses become hole sponsors or contribute items for the players.  The tourney is held at the Hollydot Course in Colorado City.  All prizes for special hole events (nearest to the pin, etc.) are donated.  Lunch is part of the player's fee. 

Raffles

     AWPS holds a major raffle in the late summer and fall.  All prizes are donated.  The drawing is held at the golf tournament. Tickets are $1 each of 6 tickets for $5.  Other raffles may be held.  We hold a raffle license from the State. 

Lawn Sale

     In August or September, a huge lawn sale is held.  All items are donated by members and supporters and sometimes businesses.  We have had a lot of quality items donated to us.  The only expense is the advertisement in the paper.


Other fundraisers are Pet Santa Photos at PETsMART in December, Feet and Fur whenever it is held, cash boxes at several businesses and other events that may bring us exposure and funds.  Every penny helps.  Board members and other members and friends give volunteer time to run all fundraisers.