2021 Pet Products and Services Awards

Page 28 www.lux-review.com LUX 2021 Pet Products and Services Awards Paws2Rescue is not just a dog rehoming charity. Instead, the UK Registered Charity is committed to tackling the root of the issues around unwanted animals and relieving the suffering of dogs all over the world. Founded in 2013, Paws2Rescue’s work is largely focused in Romania, with other projects also taking place in South Korea, Peru, China and beyond. These projects consist of work with partner charities and rescuers in the provision of shelter, food, neutering and veterinary treatment; education and neuter programmes; and the rehoming of dogs in loving homes across the UK. Within these is a variety of individual ambitious projects, that spans from the construction and renovation of premises to shelter and treat stray, sick and unadoptable animals to a scholarship scheme to fund future vets through their studies in Romania; from a 6 month neuter project supported by Battersa Dogs and Cats Home to a huge Christmas and Easter gift appeal. “We recognise that for every animal we match to a loving home in the UK, many more continue to suffer needlessly,” explains Alison Standbridge, Head of Management at Paws2Rescue. “That’s why we don’t just rehome unwanted animals, we tackle the root cause through our widespread neutering and education programmes.” In fact, the fantastic neutering and education programmes are just one part of the work done by Paws2Rescue. Alison continues, “We offer financial support to 22 rescues across Romania and Moldova, as well as other programmes. We use our platform in the UK to fundraise as well as raise awareness of the plight of animals and to encourage our supporters to back our calls for changes in the law to end unnecessary suffering. We offer full back-up to our adopters and fosterers and are always available to help with any issues.” None of this work would be possible without the rescue team, made up entirely Fresh from success at the Pet Products and Services Awards 2021 and in the midst of its most ambitious project yet, Paws2Rescue is currently riding high. We find out more about the charity from Head of Management, Alison Standbridge. May21465 Paws2Rescue Animal Charity of the Year 2021 - Europe of volunteers committed to helping animals and spreading awareness about a severe global issue. “We have no paid staff,” Alison tells us. “Our volunteers live across the United Kingdom and have a diverse range of backgrounds and life experiences. We have over thirty volunteers and are a friendly and supportive team united by our love for animals and our commitment to the Paws2Rescue mission to alleviate suffering. We look for volunteers who understand that our work is always rewarding, but this goes hand in hand with heartbreak. “Because we recognise this can be emotional work, we are truly grateful to those who still decide to volunteer and dedicate their time to us. Increasingly, our team of volunteers has truly become a close unit, the heartbeat of Paws2Rescue, our dog family, our friends. We were recently proud to be awarded the Investing in Volunteers Quality Standard,” Alison adds. Although it is not a paid team, the staff at Paws2Rescue are nonetheless well-trained and deeply devoted to the charity and its work. “Our volunteers have all adopted dogs from us and are aware of the issues surrounding rehoming animals. The team is made of people who are grateful for the chance to welcome one of our dogs into their lives, and who want to give something back. We offer full support to all our new volunteers and we understand everyone is different, and therefore we are creative in offering a range of opportunities to suit a variety of talents and interests. We provide the necessary training and value our team’s time, support and commitment. In addition, we recognise that volunteering is a two-way street and that team members may wish to develop their knowledge and skills in a different area.” While the pandemic saw interest in adoption soar, Paws2Rescue also had to deal with the problems it caused, particularly in the remote areas of Romania. However, Paws2Rescue has taken the time to revaluate and develop, so that it can become even stronger as an organisation and a greater asset in the fight for better animal welfare. From its growing team of volunteers to the regular updates of the charity’s robust adoption and fostering processes, Paws2Rescue is dedicated to being the best it can be. As such, the future looks bright for the charity as it continues to work on its most ambitious project yet: to build a sanctuary in western Romania to help rehabilitate dogs and a clinic to neuter dogs and cats. “We had to raise the money to build the sanctuary and we launched our campaign to raise the £25,000 needed,” says Alison. “Our collective sponsored walk of 2500 kilometres represents the distance between the UK and our new sanctuary in West Romania. We are so proud of our supporters and the dedication and compassion they have shown in sharing our vision, and thanks to them, we have raised the money we need to build this much- needed sanctuary.” Contact: Alison Standbridge Company: Paws2Rescue Web Address: www.paws2rescue.com