The Animal Welfare Society has a proud tradition of serving our community and domestic pets in need. We have served continuously since 1952. AWS was formed to provide care and protection for suffering homeless and unwanted animals; to educate the public in respect to humane treatment of animals and to encourage and assist in the enforcement of laws against mistreatment of and cruelty to animals.
There was no place within the county where homeless cats, kittens and puppies would be taken for a second chance at life. The county only handled dogs. There was also great concern over the manner in which the county dog pound operated, particularly in regard to unsanitary conditions. AWS attention soon focused on solving this significant problem - construction and operation an animal shelter in Jefferson County by AWS.
During two decades from 1958-1978, the Society passed through a period in which there was little growth and in which rising costs and limited membership income hampered the Society’s activities. Yet, the founders persevered in their vision and mission. The 72 member AWS was the only organization in the county trying to solve the problem of acute unwanted stray pet explosion.
Among the projects undertaken was a spay/neuter program in cooperation with Friends of Animals and local veterinarians, a cooperative effort with the county on low-cost rabies vaccinations, a program to increase knowledge of children in proper pet care. All of these programs continue today!
In January 1981, a committee was selected to develop and present a formal proposal to the Jefferson County Commission. After 5 years of work, the West Virginia legislature approved a bill that allowed Jefferson County Commissioners to donate an acre of land to AWS for construction of a shelter for homeless, stray and unwanted animals. AWS board members devoted themselves to fundraising activities during this period accumulating $34,000 during a 6 year period. Groundbreaking occurred in August 1985 and the dream of AWS founders became reality in October of that same year.
Upon completion, the AWS shelter included 10 dog runs, a cat room with 15 domiciles, an isolation room to accommodate 5 cages, a small office and reception area. For the most part, animal accommodations have changed little in 49 years.
Proper housing for abandoned cats, kittens, dogs and puppies didn’t exist. The county only housed adult dogs. So in 1985, AWS completed construction of the current animal shelter on Old Leetown Pike Road. The shelter accommodates 20 dog/puppies and roughly 30 cats/kittens. As a no-kill shelter, we are normally overflowing with pets seeking a second chance for a loving home. Each year, over 500 pets pass through our doors.
In August 1999, a the driver of a motor vehicle lost control of the car and demolished the front of the shelter building. No animals were injured however, significant structural damage occurred. The Board of Directors, voted to rebuild the front of the building adding 20 feet to provide more comfortable reception areas and to allow the old small office to be used for additional animal handling and isolation facilities. A commercial loan to cover costs above and beyond the vehicle drivers insurance settlement was sought and approved. This is the principal reason for expenses exceeding income in the year 2000 financial statement included in this document.
In the year 2000, AWS enjoyed financial support from 648 members. AWS is also a United Way Agency with over 80 individuals who specifically designate the Animal Welfare Society of Jefferson County, WV as the recipient of their United Way donations.
Today, the Board of Directors, staff and volunteers continue to share and carry on the vision of those who in 1952 recognized the plight of unwanted and abused dogs, puppies, kittens, and cats and the need to provide a place devoted to providing love, compassion and a second chance at life to these wonderful beings.
Serving our community, the Animal Welfare Society of Jefferson County, WV was incorporated in West Virginia on February 7, 1952 as a non-profit corporation. Founding members included Mabel B. Venable, William S. Venable, W.P.C. Perry, Cora I. Chambers and Forrest A. Brown.
Mission -
AWS is all about compassion for animals and their suffering. We have the willingness to do “whatever it takes” to provide our wards with the second chance at the life they so deserve.
Officers:
President: Ann Trumble
Vice President: Jane Tarner
Treasurer: Janet Bailey
Recording Secretary: Dannie Wall
Corresponding Secretary: Anna Mary Walsh
Board of Directors:
Janet Bailey
Desiree Baker
Candy Cain
Dottie Kracke
Dale Manuel
Sean Murtaugh
Jessica Robinson
Jo Shoesmith
Jane Tarner
Ann Trumble
Dannie Wall
Anna Mary Walsh
Staff:
: Shelter Manager
