Shelter Me: PAWS

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The staff at the Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society, better known as PAWS, says the stray population is a big concern in Philadelphia.

"Stray cats if they're not fixed can then reproduce. If a cat is raised outside without human contact, they become feral," says Ame Wiltzius, Manager at Old City PAWS Adoption Center.

Their message for pet owners is simple. Never place unwanted pets on the street.

"Bring the animal to animal care and control, the street really shouldn't be an option at all," Wiltzius says.

PAWS operates as Philadelphia's largest no-kill rescue, pulling animals straight from ACCT Philly and works to get them medical attention, fostering and forever homes.

"The save rate has been going up and up every single year to the point where now we are beyond 80-percent of animals in that building being saved. Major difference from ten years ago, it was only 10-percent," says Wiltzius.

PAWS is responsible for approximately 2,500 adoptions a year. The more homes they find, the more lives they can save.

Stardust is a friendly little calico kitten with a cast, she was found injured as a stray and is currently in foster care. Once she's all mended she could make the perfect holiday gift.

June Bloom is a friendly, social cat who needs a little extra TLC.

"She has diabetes. She gets two insulin shots a day and takes it like a champ and doesn't even notice," Wiltzius says.

Dino is a one-year-old playful pup who was also found as a stray. He is looking for a lively and loving home.

"He's very friendly, very active. Needs training like any young dog but is very driven and wants to please you," says Wiltzius.

River is also up for adoption through PAWS, he can be a little shy at first but has tons of personality and energy once he gets warmed up to you. He was found as a stray, and is about one maybe 2-years-old. He is looking for a little bit more of a quiet home.

If you're interested in any of the animals featured in this report, you can visit the PAWS website.

And, if you'd like us to share your shelter success stories, post a picture to the FYI Philly Facebook page using #6abcshelterme and tell us where you adopted your pet and how much they mean to you.

We'll be featuring your stories on upcoming Shelter Me segments.

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