PAWS hosts Annual Holiday Auction

ZANESVILLE, OH- It looked a lot like Christmas at today’s holiday auction fundraiser for PAWS of Muskingum County. The event wrapped up this afternoon, and animal lovers gathered from all over, all hoping to make a difference for dogs and cats in need.

Dozens of people came out to bid on a kayak, gift baskets, a dining room table set, and more. Each dollar raised helps PAWS to continue their work in the community. The nonprofit is fully run by volunteers who give their time and energy so pets can live healthier, happier lives.

“We are 100% volunteers, nobody gets a penny, and we dedicate our time and all of our efforts to the animals who need us the most,” said Holiday Auction Chair, Tammy Jones.

PAWS focuses on low-cost spay and neuter services. Organizers say it’s not just about reducing the number of stray and unwanted animals, it’s about keeping them safe, healthy and helping families who otherwise can’t afford these surgeries. They say Muskingum County has a real problem with cat overpopulation, and that’s where they step in.

“I don’t know that everybody realizes it but Muskingum County has a huge overpopulation problem, and we don’t really have a place to put “extra cats”, we have facilities that will take care of dogs and things like that but there is nothing in place for cats, so that’s where we kind of step in, we have to provide services for them and by having them spayed or neutered we help control the pet population, disease,” said Jones.

The auctions may be over for this year, but there’s always a way to help. PAWS is looking for more volunteers, people who can foster animals, assist with events, or help at spay and neuter clinics. If you want to get involved, visit their website at pawsofmuskingum.org.