PAWS NY, an acronym for Pets Are Wonderful Support, is a nonprofit organization located in New York City. True to its name, the organization is a staunch advocate for the profound connection between humans and animals. Established in 2009, PAWS NY dedicates itself to offering essential pet care assistance to older adults and individuals facing illness or disability. The organization achieves this by pairing them with dedicated volunteers who provide services such as dog walking, maintaining litterboxes, facilitating transportation to and from veterinary appointments, and more.
Rachel Herman, the Founder and Executive Director of PAWS NY, emphasizes the belief that pets are integral members of families, and the organization strives to preserve these familial bonds. She notes, “When you see our clients together with their pets, their strong bond is evident. That happiness that exists between the person and the pet—that’s what we’re about.”
This collection features photographs captured by the talented PAWS NY photographer, David Andrako, showcasing some of the individuals and pets participating in the PAWS NY program. These images eloquently portray the resilience and beauty inherent in the human-animal bond.
#1 Ruth and Baby Boy
Ruth and her feline companion, Baby Boy, have shared their lives since 2010 when Ruth adopted him following the passing of her previous cat, Sacha, at the age of 18.
Reflecting on their first encounter, Ruth fondly recalls, “This cat, when I first saw him in his cage, he put his head down on the bottom of his cage for me to rub his chin. He conned me and won me.” Over the years, their bond has only deepened, and Ruth expresses, “He loves me, and I love him. I don’t know what I would do without this cat.”
Now at the age of 102, Ruth faces challenges in bending down to tend to Baby Boy’s needs, such as feeding and cleaning his litterbox. In these moments, volunteers from PAWS NY step in to provide assistance, ensuring the well-being of this cherished companionship.
#2 Cydney and Dewdrop
Cydney and her beloved dog Dewdrop share a special bond, and their connection has only deepened since being connected to PAWS NY in early 2020, just before the onset of pandemic shutdowns. PAWS NY provided invaluable support by assisting with the costs of pet food and veterinary visits for Cydney’s two cats and two dogs.
Expressing her gratitude, Cydney stated, “I don’t know how to put into words how helpful this has been to me. PAWS NY is a blessing. My pets are my only family, so PAWS helps me keep them.”
When things began to reopen, PAWS NY continued their support by connecting Cydney with volunteers who assist in walking Dewdrop and her other canine companion, Willie. The organization plays a crucial role in helping Cydney maintain the well-being of her cherished pets, who are like family to her.
#3 Pedro and Chica
Pedro and Edith, Spanish speakers, exemplify that compassion and care for pets transcend language and cultural differences. Their pet Chica is particularly protective of Pedro and enjoys sharing couch naps with him. The bond between humans and their pets is a universal language that brings people together across diverse backgrounds and traditions.
#4 Edith and Luna
Chihuahua Luna, while being adored by Edith, revels in kisses and snuggles, especially when she’s not out on walks with her canine companion Blue and their dedicated PAWS volunteers. The joy and affection shared between Luna, Edith, and their furry companions exemplify the heartwarming connections that pets bring into the lives of their human caregivers.
#5 Rosa and Clover
Rosa’s bond with her furry friend Clover began when she adopted him as a puppy, providing comfort and companionship following the loss of her previous pup, Oreo. Clover, displaying his playful side with energetic zoomies during visits to Central Park, highlights the joy and vitality that pets bring into the lives of their owners. The connection between Rosa and Clover is a testament to the enduring love and happiness that pets contribute to their human caregivers’ lives.
#6 Dawn and Valla
The touching story of Dawn and Valla showcases the extraordinary bond between a visually impaired individual and her companion animal. Valla not only served as Dawn’s Seeing Eye Dog but continued to be a source of comfort and companionship throughout her retirement years. The support provided by PAWS NY and its dedicated volunteers played a crucial role in ensuring that Dawn could keep Valla by her side. While Valla faced health challenges and ultimately passed away at the age of 14, the enduring love and impact of their companionship remain a testament to the profound connections forged between humans and their pets. Sending heartfelt condolences and love to Dawn during this difficult time.