The good news is that a group called PAWS is actively working to address these issues. PAWS was founded on Saipan in 1993 and operates as an independent not-for-profit organization. PAWS is dedicated to the health, care, welfare, and population control of cats and dogs in the CNMI and to the education of the public for animal care and rights.
Anyone who cares about animals is welcome to join PAWS. A PAWS member can get involved in several different ways; they can rescue strays, foster animals or donate money or services. The organization itself is run by a board of seven individuals who are elected by the members. The members of the current board are Sarah Fryling, Bobbi Grizzard, Jennifer Welton, Paul Plunkett, Patricia Garshak, Rachelle Miles and Adam Miles.
PAWS is made up entirely of volunteers. It has no employees and no physical office. This means that all donations received go directly toward helping the animals. The large majority of the PAWS budget goes to pay the veterinarian bills for animals that are rescued. PAWS helps an average of 12 to 15 such animals a month. All of them go to Paradise Island Animal Hospital where they receive treatment for parasites, mange or whatever illnesses they may have. From there the animals go to foster homes where PAWS members will care for them until they can find a permanent home. A small part of the funds goes toward educational campaigns geared toward informing the community on proper pet care. An example of this is a program where PAWS representatives go to grade schools to teach kids how to care for their pets.
Get involved. Become a member of PAWS. The suggested annual membership fee is $30, but PAWS will accept whatever amount you can give. Go to its website: www.paws-saipan.org. Download the membership application and send it with your check to P. O. Box 5330, Saipan, MP 96950. PAWS thanks you for caring.
