Cooperstown Animal Welfare Society: Providing A Safe Haven For Animals in Cooperstown and Beyond

A Mission of Compassion and Care

The Cooperstown Animal Welfare Society (CAWS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the welfare and protection of animals in Cooperstown, New York, and the surrounding areas. Established in 1997, CAWS has been the cornerstone of animal care in the community, providing a wide range of essential services to ensure the well-being of our furry friends.

The mission of CAWS is threefold:

1. To provide shelter and care for stray, abandoned, and unwanted animals.
2. To promote responsible pet ownership and companion animal care.
3. To advocate for animal welfare and educate the public about animal care.

Services Provided by CAWS

CAWS offers a comprehensive array of services to meet the needs of animals and their human companions:

• Animal Shelter: CAWS operates a state-of-the-art animal shelter that provides temporary housing for stray, abandoned, and surrendered animals. The shelter is equipped with modern kennels, a veterinary clinic, and a dedicated staff of animal care professionals who ensure the animals' comfort and well-being.

  

• Adoption Program: CAWS facilitates the adoption of shelter animals into loving and responsible homes. The adoption process includes a thorough screening of potential adopters to ensure the best possible match between animals and families.

  

• Pet Food Pantry: CAWS operates a pet food pantry that provides free pet food to families in need. This service helps to ensure that pets can stay in their homes and avoid being surrendered to shelters due to financial hardship.

• Veterinary Care: CAWS offers affordable veterinary care to low-income families and those who otherwise may not have access to veterinary services. The clinic provides vaccinations, spaying and neutering, and other routine medical care.

  

• Community Outreach: CAWS conducts various community outreach programs to educate the public about animal welfare issues, responsible pet ownership, and animal safety. These programs include school visits, community events, and social media campaigns.

Impact and Accomplishments

CAWS has made a significant impact on the lives of animals in Cooperstown and the surrounding areas. Since its inception, the organization has:

• Saved over 10,000 animals from euthanasia.
• Found loving homes for over 5,000 cats and dogs.
• Provided over 100,000 meals to pets in need through the pet food pantry.
• Educated over 10,000 children and adults about animal welfare.

How to Support CAWS

The work of CAWS relies heavily on the support of the community. There are several ways to get involved:

1. Adopt: Give a loving home to a shelter animal.
2. Volunteer: Lend a helping hand at the shelter or community events.
3. Donate: Financial contributions help CAWS continue providing essential services to animals in need.
4. Spread the Word: Share CAWS's mission and services on social media and with your friends and family.

Stories of Hope and Transformation

The work of CAWS has touched the lives of countless animals and their families. Here are a few heartwarming stories:

• Hope: Hope was a stray dog who wandered into the shelter, scared and emaciated. Thanks to the care and compassion of CAWS staff, Hope regained her health and found a loving home with a family that adores her.

  

• Max: Max was a senior cat who had been abandoned by his previous family. CAWS took him in and provided him with the medical care and TLC he needed. Max found a new home with an elderly woman who cherished the companionship he brought to her life.

• Bella: Bella was a puppy who was found abandoned in a ditch. She was brought to CAWS, where she received treatment for injuries and was nursed back to health. Bella was adopted by a young family who gave her the love and attention she deserves.

These stories are a testament to the incredible work done by CAWS and the transformative power of compassion and care.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Caring for Animals

1. Ignoring Preventive Care: Regular veterinary checkups, vaccinations, and parasite control are essential for maintaining your pet's health and preventing costly medical emergencies.
2. Overfeeding: Obesity is a common problem in pets, leading to health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Follow the recommended feeding guidelines and consult with a veterinarian to determine an appropriate diet for your pet.
3. Skipping Spaying or Neutering: Spaying or neutering your pet prevents unwanted litters, reduces the risk of certain cancers, and helps control the pet population.
4. Not Providing Mental Stimulation: Pets need mental stimulation just as much as physical exercise. Provide toys, puzzles, and interactive games to keep them engaged and prevent boredom.
5. Ignoring Signs of Illness: Subtle changes in your pet's behavior or appearance could indicate an underlying health issue. If you notice anything unusual, consult with a veterinarian promptly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adopting a Pet from CAWS

1. Visit the Shelter: Visit the CAWS shelter to meet the animals available for adoption.
2. Complete an Adoption Application: Submit an adoption application online or in person at the shelter.
3. Background Check: CAWS conducts a background check to ensure you are a suitable adopter.
4. Home Visit: A CAWS representative may visit your home to assess if it is a safe and suitable environment for the adopted animal.
5. Adoption Agreement: Once approved, you will sign an adoption agreement outlining the responsibilities of pet ownership.
6. Take Your New Friend Home: Welcome your new pet into your family and enjoy a lifetime of love and companionship.

FAQs

1. What are CAWS's adoption fees? Adoption fees vary depending on the species, age, and medical needs of the animal. Please contact the shelter for specific fees.
2. Does CAWS offer a money-back guarantee? CAWS does not offer a money-back guarantee, but they do work to find the best possible match between animals and adopters. If there are any concerns, CAWS is happy to provide support and guidance to ensure a successful adoption.
3. What is the difference between fostering and adopting? Fostering is a temporary arrangement where you provide care for an animal while CAWS searches for a permanent home. Adopting is a long-term commitment where you become the legal owner of the animal.
4. How can I support CAWS without adopting? You can support CAWS through donations, volunteering, attending fundraising events, and spreading the word about their services.
5. What are the shelter's hours of operation? The shelter is open for adoption inquiries from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday through Saturday.
6. Where can I find more information about the Cooperstown Animal Welfare Society? Visit the CAWS website at www.cawsny.org or call (607) 547-8111.

Conclusion

The Cooperstown Animal Welfare Society plays a pivotal role in the care and well-being of animals in Cooperstown and the surrounding areas. Through their comprehensive services, educational programs, and unwavering commitment to animal welfare, CAWS has made a lasting impact on the lives of countless creatures and their human companions. By supporting CAWS, you join a passionate community that believes in the power of compassion and the importance of giving animals a chance at a happy and fulfilling life.