PADS
needs volunteers!
THE FUTURE of a charity helping dog owners and their pets may be in doubt because there are not enough volunteers to carry out administration and fundraising tasks.
The People and Dogs Society, known as PADS, relieves suffering in dogs by solving dog related problems. PADS has been established nearly 14 years, and its advisors are much in demand, answering between eight and ten thousand queries a year. Thousands more dog owners benefit from information published on the PADS website, or in their ‘Code of Caring’ leaflets. But the long term future of the group may be threatened because not enough people are coming forward to help behind the scenes.
‘PADS is run entirely by a committee of volunteers who fit us in between work and family commitments,’ explained Debbie Waller, PADS Chairman. ‘But at the moment they are in danger of being overwhelmed by the demand on our services. We now urgently need to contact anyone who is willing to help out with admin tasks or events such as our dog show in Horbury on June 30. Volunteers don’t need to be experts of any kind, just to have an interest in dog welfare and to be able to come to our meetings in West Yorkshire, near junction 31 of the M62.’
Because PADS concentrates on improving standards of care rather than on rehoming dogs, Debbie feels they can miss out on the sympathy factor which attracts support to other dog charities. ‘Nevertheless,’ she added, ‘The people, and dogs, who benefit from PADS’ services would hate to be without them.’
Anyone who would like more details can phone Debbie on 01977-678593, e-mail pads@btinternet.com or visit the PADS website at http://www.gurney.co.uk/pads
