A Different Kind of Animal Shelter

By Teresa Ambord

Most cities have some kind of animal shelter that houses lost or unwanted dogs and cats. Sadly, if those pets are not soon claimed by their original owners or adopted by new ones, a great many of them are euthanized.  That’s not the case at agencies like Another Chance Animal Welfare League (ACAWL) a new, no-kill shelter in  Shasta County, California.

As the human population grows, so does the animal population.  That also means the number of abused and unwanted animals is constantly growing.   ACAWL and no-kill shelters like it are committed to providing refuge for these animals, rather than euthanizing healthy, adoptable pets. ACAWL’s mission is “to promote the welfare of animals through leadership, education, adoption, and rescue.”

How do they do it?

It’s not easy.  Currently ACAWL is raising funds to build or buy a sanctuary that can house these animals and create a loving and safe place for them to live until the right home is found.

In the meantime, individuals have opened their homes to provide foster care for the animals, much the same way children are placed in foster care.  Foster homes are thoroughly vetted to ensure they offer protective, nurturing environments.   Because the number of foster homes is severely limited, ACAWL may often be full to capacity. That’s why they need a sanctuary.

Where do the animals at ACAWL come from?

Mostly from other shelters.  When a healthy, adoptable animal’s time at other shelters has run out, ACAWL steps in (if room is available in foster care) and continues the effort to find a home for the pet.  That explains the name, Another Chance Animal Welfare League. In addition, some animals come to ACAWL because their owners can no longer care for them.  Others are found as strays, or are cruelly cast aside by former owners.

Not only does ACAWL provide vital services to the surrounding area, but when Hurricane Katrina devastated parts of the country, ACAWL was there to help with the displaced animals.  Though space was limited, an ACAWL representative traveled to the stricken area and brought back animals desperate for “another chance.”

How does ACAWL find permanent homes for unwanted animals?

Pets are taken to adoption events in the local community so the public can see them and hopefully, open their hearts and homes to these wonderful animals.  ACAWL also posts pictures and descriptions on Petfinder.com.

And, once the ACAWL website is complete, look for a weekly  “pet of the week” featuring one irresistible animal.

• Another Chance Animal Welfare League

How can you help?

As you might guess, there is never a shortage of opportunity to help when it comes to a tax-exempt charitable organization like ACAWL.  The needs constantly outstrip the means.

Here are several ways you might consider helping:

• Monetary donations are always welcome.  Stay-tuned for an online donation feature on the ACAWL website. Till then, please make checks payable to:
  
  Another Chance Animal Welfare League
  P.O. Box 308
  Millville, CA 96062
• Enroll in the Guardian Angel Club, and donate $25 per month to sponsor a foster animal.   You will receive a picture and updates on your pet’s progress in finding a home.
• Donate your unwanted vehicles to ACAWL and get a tax deduction.
• Donate land for the upcoming no-kill sanctuary.
• Consider taking out an insurance policy with ACAWL as the beneficiary.  This is an inexpensive way to continue helping animals after you’re gone.
• If you live in the Shasta County area, there are limitless ways you can be part of this great work, including helping with humane education programs, attending fundraising events and committees, helping with clerical functions, and even becoming a foster home.
• Wherever you live, visit Petfinder when you want a new pet.
• If you have other ways you’d like to help, phone 530-224-8755 or e-mail at: : Compassion4Pets@aol.com
• If you’d like to receive ACAWL’s newsletter or if you’d like more information, drop them an e-mail at: Compassion4Pets@aol.com

Another Chance Animal Welfare League:  Speaking for those with no voice… because each animal deserves a home and another chance.