As the days grow shorter and colder it is time to remember our four – footed companions who provide love and protection in our lives.

I am a member of PAWS, a 501(C)(3) charitable organization here in Patrick County. We are dedicated to the welfare of companion animals, mainly dogs, in a county that has no humane society. We appreciate the articles on PAWS in “The Enterprise” to get our message out to the public.

We have provided food and housing for animals in need and help in emergency situations such as fires, floods and other disasters. But at present, our main focus is spay/neuter to prevent unwanted litters, thus preventing roaming/breeding animals from causing accidents and injuries to themselves and others.

At the present, PAWS is in a reorganizational situation, recruiting new members to gain new ideas on how to better serve our community. A recent meeting gained five new due – paying members. We plan to host another meeting on Jan. 10 at 6 p.m. in the Hooker Building in Stuart. Call (276) 694-2378 for more information.

In the meantime, we continue to offer spay/neuter vouchers. We have had 32 dogs participate so far this year. This is a delicate and rather expensive operation and our only sources of money are donations from the caring and concerned residents of our community.

Please consider making a donation to PAWS in honor or memory of “those who have everything” a unique gift so very appropriate at this season.

Our address is PAWS, P.O. Box 743, Stuart, Virginia 24171. A handwritten card will be sent announcing your gift to whomever you choose. PAWS wishes everyone the happiest of holidays and we look forward to meeting you in 2019.

David A. Sheley