Embedded Files
OUR STORY
Shirley Cook
Founder
“It all started with 1 black cat!” Actually it was a black kitten that was found by her husband and daughter who were out walking their dogs. The black kitten was meowing, while huddling below an exterior dryer vent to stay warm. Shirley Cook kept that one black cat (the infamous Miss Marple), and the next thing everyone knew she was saving more of them! But not just black cats...
For over 20 years, Shirley has rescued thousands of cats (and other animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas and lizards as well). For many years she worked full time as a Registered Nurse, but retired many years ago to rescue animals full time. At first, it was just Shirley. She would travel all over Peel rescuing feral cats, moms with kittens, kittens without moms. Shirley would do everything she possibly could to save a life! (And still does!)
In her constant effort to ensure "every life mattered”, she attracted the attention of other “do gooders” who were of the same mindset to help animals in need of rescue. Today, she works with a number of incredible people who tirelessly volunteer, act as foster parents, help care for rescued animals at PetSmart, provide donations of much needed supplies and much, much more.
Paws & Tails Adoptions is now a registered PetSmart Charity as well, hosting adoptions of all kinds of animals from FOUR PetSmart locations!
Her phone rings incessantly throughout the day, 7 days a week, so if you are trying to contact her, please be patient.
She will get back to you when she can!
OUR ORGANIZATION
Paws & Tails Adoptions is 100% volunteer run. Today, there are about 100 volunteers running around the Peel Region who are dedicating their time rescuing, caring for and organizing adoptions for animals in need. We are passionate about what we do and care deeply about the welfare of the animals in our community. Our is team is made up of people from all walks of life who bring valuable skill sets and ideas to the organization.
"Volunteering at Paws and Tails is something truly special. Each day, we get to help cats who may have had a rough start find comfort, care, and a fresh beginning."
-Isabella, Paws & Tails Volunteer
Here's what Isabella, a Paws & Tails volunteer, has to say about her experience:
"Volunteering at Paws and Tails is something truly special. Each day, we get to help cats who may have had a rough start find comfort, care, and a fresh beginning. Watching a nervous cat slowly come out of their shell — whether it’s their first playful moment or the way they perk up at the sound of treats — is incredibly rewarding. Each adoption is a little miracle, and being there to see a cat find their forever family fills every day with purpose and joy. At Paws and Tails, we don’t just find homes for cats — we help build new beginnings, one purr at a time."
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse