Tuesday morning, at approximately 9:30am, two cats were found abandoned in Dorchester Paws’ donation shed. The shed was designed to make donating items outside of shelter operation hours easier. Despite multiple signs stating that it is cruel and illegal to leave animals outside the shelter, this is not the first time Dorchester Paws has encountered this problem. The cats were discovered by an unnamed volunteer, who was dropping off empty aluminum cans for Dorchester Paws’ recycling program. The volunteer immediately notified Ebony Slater, an Animal Care Technician, stating, “When I opened up the shed, to drop of the cans, I saw two crates and heard meowing.”

The cats were immediately retrieved and brought into the clinic where they were examined for signs of dehydration. It is unknown how long the animals remained in the shed for. Dorchester Paws, whose shelter is nearing max capacity, was just glad that the cats were discovered before the heat of the day kicked in. The cats, now named Norm and Jazz, are doing well and will remain at Dorchester Paws’ intake clinic for processing.

The shelter wants to remind the public that they do take in owner surrenders for animals located in Dorchester County, but appointments are necessary. They also provide pet food and cat litter for those facing unexpected circumstances.

While owner surrender appointments may be scheduled a few weeks out during their busy months, this is no excuse to leave an animal outside of the shelter. You can find more information regarding Dorchester Paws’ programs and services here: https://dorchesterpaws.org/programs/

May is typically the shelter’s highest intake month out of the whole year. Their cat room is completely full and they are constantly seeking fosters.

June is adopt a shelter cat month and to help raise awareness Dorchester Paws will be adopting out animals over 6 months old for $30. Additionally all kittens will be half off.