We Care for Paws Foundation became a not for profit, tax exempt organization on March 24th, 2000.
The We Care For Paws Foundation was inspired by Lynn Lovering and made possible through the kindness and generosity of her good friend “Papa B” in honor of his wife and companion for nearly half a century, “Mama B.”
Lynn was a unique, courageous individual who was small in stature but big in heart. She loved all animals but had a special compassion for and understanding of cats. She often placed herself in dangerous situations in her quest to feed or rescue an animal. She had a will of steel, an enormous passion for animals, and impatience with those who did not share her passion or point of view.
Lynn owned and operated a pet sitting service in St Petersburg called We Care For Paws. A mutual friend introduced Lynn to our founder. The two women became fast friends. They shared a love of animals and the mutual goal of feeding homeless cats.
Late at night, you could find the two women feeding the neighborhood cats, Lynn with her oxygen in tow. She required oxygen to breathe. Lynn lost her third battle with cancer, but the lessons she taught will not be forgotten.
Our founder serves as the Executive Director of the Foundation. When asked about salary and paid staff, she often remarks, “Our staff pays for the privilege of serving the animals!”
We Care for Paws Foundation is an organization which focuses on the old, the sick, the crippled, and the emotionally disturbed canines and felines. The very animals traditionally overlooked and euthanized. We believe all animals deserve to live in peace for the remaining years of their lives. To that end, we have a private, five-acre sanctuary where dogs are allowed to be dogs ,and cats are allowed to be cats. Our dogs bark, run and play in compatible packs on a rotational basis throughout the day. They can dig, hunt in the uncleared areas of the property, or just hang out. The majority of the dogs live indoors. We have blind dogs, dogs without teeth, and several dogs with personality issues due to previous abuse. Most are very old and have the problems associated with age. Veterinary care is one of our largest expenses.
Our cats are indoor only. They sit in the windows, scratch, play, and climb. We supply soft beds, knitted Afghans for the shelves they lay on, pillows, cardboard boxes and tops, scratch posts, condos, and toys. Many of the cats are extremely old. A few are feral. One cat has only one eye, and several are without teeth. A couple were declawed before arriving at the sanctuary and have the associated issues. Others have an assortment of ailments, or their owners were no longer able to care for them.
On occasion, someone special comes along, and we adopt out a special needs animal. This is done based only on the needs of the animal. We reserve the right to deny any adoption for any reason. Home visits are required.
We are a TRUE no-kill sanctuary. Euthanasia is only utilized when an animal is in pain which cannot be alleviated. If we accept an animal, that animal will remain at the sanctuary for the rest of its life, unless an appropriate home is found. The animal must be returned to the sanctuary if it cannot remain in the approved home.
When it is necessary to humanely euthanize an animal or when it draws its final breath, we do everything possible to soothe and comfort it. We strive to provide a place where animals are respected both in life and in death. Animals that die while at the sanctuary are treated with dignity and respect. They are not thrown in the trash. The animals are cremated with the cremains returned to the Foundation.
We adhere to the following belief:
One day, there will be a place where animals can live in peace. A quiet place. A place filled with laughter, love and gentleness. A place to roam. A place to play. A place to freely smell the flowers. A place to bring their companions for fun, education and relaxation. A place where there is cool water, warm food ,and belly rubs. A place where animals are respected in life and in death.
We Care for Paws Foundation is a private foundation. It is registered with the IRS and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (CH14666.) We are not funded by any state of federal agency. Our operating budget is based on only donations. All donations are gratefully appreciated and tax deductible.
We encourage people who would like to donate to refer to the Florida Gift Givers Guide (http.//app1.800helpfla.com/giftgiversguide/).
We Care for Paws Foundation is a 501c(3) not for profit and is tax-exempt.
