PAWS helps people and pets

when they need it most

Progressive Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) is a volunteer-based charity organization dedicated to helping people struggling to afford unexpected vet care for pets. We subsidize essential care for qualified low-income pet owners and assist with preventive solutions.

If you see animal abuse, the correct Province of Ontario contact is Animal Welfare Services: 1-833-926-4625. Call them! They have no email. This is NOT their website. Do NOT contact us as we can’t help. We are a charity. We have nothing to do with policing or seizing or investigating. 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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Our Events

For hearts of all sizes

Help us keep families and their pets together! June 5, 2027 - 1pm - 4pm

Learn More + Prior Event Pics & Results

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.

Charlie and His Brothers

Jessica and her family faced unexpected challenges, read about how their pets fought for survival and how PAWS helped.

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Enzo, The Resilient

Read the story of how Enzo, the puppy left behind, from a neglected litter captured the heart of Rola and how they grew their bond!

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Astro and Neehlah

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Check out our latest posts

Visit our Blog and Resources menu for helpful tips, stories, and pet care education!

Pet Health

My pet got into my cannabis…

Author: Sofia Castro

It happens more often than you think. Learn the symptoms of cannabis ingestion by your pet. It can be toxic!

Pet Health

Hot Weather Can Be Deadly: How to Protect your Pets

Author: Alisa Boyko

Don't underestimate the impact of hot weather on your pet - Tips to prevent dehydration, heatstroke, damaged paws. Keep your pet cool!

Pet Health

Protecting your Dog’s PAWS in the Winter Season

Protecting your dog’s paws during the winter season is important for maintaining their health. Learn about snow shoes and other tips to protect your dog's paw pads.

See all our posts

Did you know?

800,000

is the approximate number of households in Ontario that have a pet and live in poverty.

40%

of low income families who surrender their pets do so because they lack the funds to pay for veterinary care.

56%

of women experiencing domestic violence, delay leaving a dangerous home because of concern for their pets.

Help the people and pets that need it most!

Thanks to our Major Supporters this year ($5000+)