PAWS is a small animal rescue group in the Jackson, MN, area who has been taking in, spaying/neutering/vaccinating dogs and cats for over 9 years. When the local vet who acted as the pound retired 3 years ago, we were asked by the City of Jackson to in essence act as the pound for cats. With the understanding that we are NO KILL and would not euthanize unless medically needed, we agreed, and they agreed to pay us a maximum of $2000 per year, the equivalent of 13 cats per year. That was three years ago.

As president of PAWS, I approached the City Council tonight requesting an increase in this capped amount.  They essentially refused, saying they were comfortable in the amount being paid now. Since I was there alone, they conveniently did not remember the others who have spoken on behalf of PAWS In the past. So they tabled the question until next meeting, December 17, believing that they would hear nothing from anyone but me. So since it will be difficult to get signatures physically, with the weather we have been having, I am trying this petition electronically.

The number of animals rescued each year increases, as there are so many in need. Since the majority of our rescues are from within Jackson city limits, and we are contracting with the city to take as many kids as possible off the streets, we think it only fair that they be willing to up the number of animals they will reimburse us for. We have taken in 24 so far this year just from Jackson city limits, and we have had to turn many away, simply because we are limited by space and resources.

Please sign this petition if you agree that PAWS deserves to be reimbursed for the animals we are already rescuing from the city of Jackson, and finding homes for. We request a cap of $4000, which still only scratches the surface of the need in the city of Jackson alone.