PAWS helps people and pets when they need it most

Progressive Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) is a volunteer-based organization dedicated to helping people struggling to give required vet care to their pets. We subsidize essential care for low-income or in-crisis guardians and provide preventive and educational solutions.

We are NOT involved in policing or investigating animal abuse. The correct Ontario contact is Animal Welfare Services: 1-833-926-4625

Read this to learn more about what to report and who to contact across Canada

Our Programs

Vet Care Subsidies

When people with low income need help with vet care costs, PAWS’ subsidies help families keep their pets rather than resorting to surrender or euthanasia.

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Education & Resources

By sharing preventive pet care advice and resources, PAWS promotes practices that reduce suffering and the overall cost of pet ownership.

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Community Support

PAWS subsidizes pet care to allow agency clients to access shelter or services and offers guidance to create their own pet-friendly solutions.

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Many people in Ontario have to face tough decisions based on their financial situation

Your donation will help to:

Keep pets with families regardless of income level
Reduce surrenders of animals to shelters
Reduce unnecessary euthanasia
Reduce animal suffering by treating illness promptly
Reduce the number of unwanted births
Prevent the spread of illness

Happy Tales

Stories about the people and pets we have helped.

Astro and Neehlah

Read about how two girls, Astro and Neehlah, got the help they needed while their owner, Melinda, struggled with homelessness.

Kermit, the Cat

Getting a diabetes diagnosis is never easy for anyone. Here's a story of how Sue's kitty, Kermit, got the help he needed.

Daisy and Lindsay

Lindsay knew spaying her dog Daisy was the right thing to do. Thankfully PAWS chipped in to help her prevent an unwanted litter of pups.

Odo and Melissa

Read the story of hope and gratitude about a beloved cat, Odo, and his owner Melissa who fought to save his life with the help of PAWS.

Becoming a Pet-Friendly Shelter: Case Study of ANOVA

A pet-friendly shelter can offer critical support for people fleeing violence. Read this case study about helping clients and their pets!

Rufus and Kayla

A recurring illness can bring hefty medical bills. But Rufus and Kayla tackled both the illness and its expenses, with a little help from PAWS.

Make a difference in Honour of Someone Special

A donation in to celebrate or honour someone special or as a pet memorial, shows how much you care and helps provide for people and pets in need.

Whether your gift is in memory of someone special, a beloved pet, an expression of sympathy, congratulations, or to commemorate a birthday, anniversary or other special occasion, your thoughtful gesture will be so appreciated.

Learn about more Ways to Give.