Urgent Help for Pets: Paws In Need Saves Lives, Funds Needed NOW

UPDATE: Paws In Need, a vital nonprofit organization, is urgently seeking funds to continue its lifesaving work for pets in need. As families face mounting veterinary costs, the organization is stepping in to provide crucial financial assistance for pet care, including surgeries and spay/neuter services.

In a heartwarming story from Livermore, California, pet owners Chandler and Colton Casey recently rescued an emaciated dog named Kip, who required immediate medical attention after being struck by a vehicle. The emergency surgery, which cost thousands of dollars, was partially funded by Paws In Need, underscoring the nonprofit’s mission to help families facing financial hardship.

“For Kip, it was super serious,” said Lisa Williams, co-founder and president of Paws In Need. “He had to see a specialist for his open chest surgery.” Fortunately, Kip has since recovered and is now enjoying hikes with his family, thanks to the assistance provided by this dedicated organization.

Established in 2013, Paws In Need has supported over 8,000 animals across the Tri-Valley area, including Dublin, San Ramon, Pleasanton, and Livermore. The nonprofit provides monthly assistance to nearly 90 animals, primarily focusing on spay and neuter services to combat overcrowded shelters and reduce unnecessary euthanasia.

Williams emphasizes the importance of providing financial aid, stating, “Just because you’re financially challenged doesn’t mean you’re not a loving home for a pet.” The organization aims to offer low-cost options to help families keep their pets healthy and safe.

Another recent case involved Brandy, a retired hunting dog with a mast-cell tumor. Her foster parent, Janelle Schneider, reached out to Paws In Need for help with the surgery, which cost about $8,000. The organization contributed $2,000, allowing Schneider and her husband to adopt Brandy and ensure she receives the care she desperately needs.

Paws In Need handles urgent medical situations such as severe infections, amputations, and cancer treatments by connecting pet owners with veterinary partners. “We don’t pay for the whole thing,” Williams clarified. “It’s a medical assistance grant program, and we ensure people understand they need to contribute as well.”

The nonprofit is also committed to helping community cats. They manage feral cat colonies, providing vaccines and medical treatment before returning the cats to their original locations. Recently, they launched a program for abandoned kittens, caring for them until they are ready for adoption.

However, these essential services are at risk without adequate funding. In the past year, over 90% of Paws In Need’s budget of $230,000 has gone directly to veterinary bills. The organization is actively seeking donations to maintain its programs and continue supporting families in need.

“We have to speak up for the helpless,” said Williams. “One of our board members, who sadly passed away, came up with our tagline, which is ‘Help us, help them.’ We need help helping the animals — and the animals need help.”

As the demand for financial assistance grows, Paws In Need continues to be a lifeline for struggling pet owners. To support their mission, individuals can donate directly at sharethespiriteastbay.org/donate or contact the organization for more information.

Stay tuned for further updates as Paws In Need works tirelessly to ensure that no pet is left without care.