Forget the snakes and snails. It was purely puppy dog tails that captured the heart of young Art Shaul. And Shaul’s passion for canines continued through the years, culminating just over five years ago with his creation of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Safe Paws Rescue, Inc.
The Safe Paws Rescue mission statement is succinct and eloquent: “Our mission is to rescue, help, rehabilitate and rehome needy pets.”
No Buildings, No Salaries
Safe Paws Rescue is unique because this nonprofit canine rescue organization relies totally on volunteers for its existence. There are no salaried employees; dedicated volunteers oversee all the organization’s operations, spanning from fundraising to dog rescue and placement, to fiscal oversight and governance. In addition, there is no Safe Paws Rescue physical facility with hefty ensuing costs. Volunteer foster homes fulfill the need of housing all surrendered dogs.
Utilizing this volunteer-only philosophy enables Safe Paws Rescue to put 100% of all donations toward the care of surrendered dogs. Foster homes are supplied with everything a placed dog needs: food, toys, veterinarian care, and even a trained animal behaviorist should the dog need some appropriate socialization intervention.
Currently, Safe Paws Rescue has 15 dogs placed in foster households, with all pet care costs being subsidized by the nonprofit. Along with its foster home program, Safe Paws Rescue also has developed an outreach program that allows dogs to stay with financially challenged owners who can no longer afford to take care of their pets. Once again, this nonprofit provides these additional 30 to 35 owners, five of whom are military veterans, with all they need to see to their pets’ comfort and care. All in all, Safe Paws Rescue has saved and rehomed over 400 dogs during its five years of existence.
At the Helm
Along with the four other members of the Safe Paws Rescue board of directors, founder and director Shaul oversees all aspects of this very hands-on nonprofit. As a longtime businessperson, now retired, he brings a business acumen and philosophies to the organization. Some of the golden tenets he follows are “Strive to do it right the first time,” “Never run out of money,” and “Plan ahead!” Although Safe Paws Rescue is not trying to make a profit, per se, the board always leans into its policy of six-months-ahead planning for operating funds.
Crucial to fundraising efforts is volunteer event coordinator Heather Aughe. She organizes and oversees a multitude of fundraisers that take place throughout the Tampa Bay area. In addition, she is responsible for the organization’s social media content and presence, as well as for putting together promotional campaigns at local pet stores.
How You Can Help
Here are four ways you can assist Safe Paws Rescue: First, the organization is always looking for volunteers who are willing to become foster homes. There is no financial burden, and you get the satisfaction of knowing you have played a pivotal role in helping a needy pooch find its new home. Second, Safe Paws Rescue is always in need of donations, both financial and hardgoods. Dollars can be donated via the group’s website; goods such as toys, blankets and dog food can be donated via the group’s email address. Third, able-bodied volunteers to assist with fundraising events and other assorted tasks would be welcomed. Lastly, Safe Paws Rescue is always seeking people who want to adopt a dog permanently.
For information, visit safepawsrescue.com or send email to [email protected].
