The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting animals from abuse and upholding the humane treatment of all animals.

PAWS campaigns against dogfights, horse fights, and wild animals used for entertainment. It has successfully lobbied for the passage of the Animal Welfare Act in 1998, the country’s first national law that prohibits cruelty to animals.

This volunteer-based organization rehabilitates rescued animals in which they aim to find them new families and new homes - a second chance at a good life. Aside from that, PAWS offers low-cost spay-neuter services and is open to inquiries regarding adoption, animal welfare support, and information about the organization itself.

PAWS Animal Rehabilitation Center or PARC is the first real animal shelter in the country. Every year, with the help of dedicated staff and volunteers, PARC cares for over 500 rescued dogs and cats providing food, shelter, and medical care.

Volunteers at PAWS

Volunteers of different ages and backgrounds are encouraged to lend a hand at the shelter. Here are the stories of two such volunteers, Charlene Laxamana, and Anton Cabalza, who have made a difference to the lives of animals by extending their help and support.

A Film Student with a Cause

Charlene Laxamana or Cha, the PAWS Animal Rehabilitation Center’s (PARC) administrative officer, after graduating from UP with her majors in film, has devoted herself in to the cause of animals. Being an animal lover herself, she has two cats under her wing and is a passionate advocate of animal care. Even at a young age of 21, she wants to make a difference. She does so by extending her help to the AVP, participating in promotions, and supporting the adoption process.

Occasionally, there are some frustrations. For instance, when the tropical storm, Ketsana, engulfed most of the prominent areas of Marikina, the shelter opened its doors to both people and their pets to provide a temporary shelter. However, during their rescue operations, it was inevitable that priority was given to people as compared to pets. She admits that this was heart breaking, especially when she joined the rescue team and had first-hand experience. However, even with such emotional moments and her hands full with responsibilities, she always feels a sense of fulfilment at the end of the day.

The Untarnished Point of View

As for Anton Cabalza, a grade school student of Ateneo de Manila University, his tender age did not hinder him from lending a helping hand in the shelter. He receives tremendous support from his father, who brings Anton to the shelter during no-school days. As a family, they have two cats and a dog under their wing.

Anton can be considered as a perfect example of good values where he is able to respect all living things around him including people and animals.

Participate in the Cause

PAWS welcome queries from volunteers. As a volunteer, you can choose an area of work that suits your interests and time availability. Some of the areas in which volunteers can work are:

• Office Assistant
• Admitting
• Direct Animal Care
• Adoption Team
• Match-maker
• Adoption follow-up
• Clinic Technician Assistant
• Foster Care
• Animal Rescue Team
• Humane Education
• Campaigns
• Dr. Pet (Pet-facilitated Therapy)
• Spay-neuter Team
• Special Events
• Disaster Relief
• Fundraising Events
• Lobbying and legal work

At PAWS, age is not a consideration for lending a helping hand in rehabilitating the animals and promoting animal welfare in the country. If you have the willingness to help and a passion for animal care, do not hesitate to call the shelter at 4711688 or send them an email at philpaws@yahoo.com

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Interviewed and written by: Nyssa Bernal, UNV Communications Intern
Edited by Taruna Goel, Online Volunteer