Eglin's Pet Welfare shelter helps homeless animals

  • Published
  • By Ashley M. Wright
  • Pet Welfare publicity coordinator
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Finding new homes for the pets service members leave behind due to deployment or permanent change of station is the primary mission of Pet Welfare, a no-kill, all-volunteer animal shelter, located here.

Pet Welfare accepts cats and dogs from civilians or shelters that practice euthanasia, if room is available. However, this has not stopped some individuals from abandoning their pets on the shelter's doorstep, without identification or explanation of any health issues.

"Sometimes it feels like a losing battle," said Jennifer Chapman, Pet Welfare board chairman. "Then, you look into that dog's eyes or hear an abandoned cat purr, and you know you have to find a way to make it work."

Christina Beebe, a Pet Welfare volunteer, described how Bumblebean, a neglected, mistreated cat, soon thrived at Pet Welfare with a little time and attention.

"He would lash out at all the cats," Beebe said. "He was really territorial, since he was used to fending for himself. I think being in the shelter has been the best thing for him. If he had gone to a 'kill' shelter, there is a good chance he would not have had the time to settle in and make friends."

A common misconception about Pet Welfare is the shelter receives government funding.

"We operate 100 percent on donations, from individuals, through the Combined Federal Campaign and through grants," Chapman said. "Our doors remain open because of awareness and this is done through our volunteers. Without them spreading the word, our bills would go unpaid and our doors would close."

Pet Welfare operates with no paid positions. Twice a day, 365 days a year, volunteers arrive to feed and walk dogs; change water bowls; clean litter boxes and give medications. They also write grants, plan events and help with fundraisers.

The 96th Air Base Wing commander, Col. Sal Nodjomian, said his recent visit was an eye-opener.

"This is such an outstanding and heartwarming service being provided," he said. "It only takes one visit to this place to see the good being done here."

Pet Welfare recently launched a redesigned website aimed at making navigation easier for those wanting to adopt animals, volunteer or donate to the non-profit agency.

"Many people call or come to the shelter asking if this is the base veterinarian's office, or if this is where they report animal cruelty," Beebe said. "The website clearly outlines who we are and what we do."

The site will continuously be updated with the latest adoptable animal photos, shelter needs and fundraising event information.

"When people learn more about what we do, through our new website, I hope their hearts will open to the possibility of donating, volunteering, or hopefully adopting," Beebe said. "Never underestimate the power of emotion."

To learn more about Pet Welfare, pick up a volunteer application or make a donation, visit the shelter at 683 Range Road, the new website at www.petwelfare.net or find them on Facebook.