PAWSWEB

What PAWSWEB makes

Topics animal welfare, wildlife rescue, exotic animals, animal advocacy, sanctuary

The Performing Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) was formed in 1984 to rescue and care for abused, neglected or retired exotic and wild animals. PAWS operates three sanctuaries in California, including the 2,300-acre ARK 2000 natural habitat refuge, and cares for elephants, big cats, bears, and other wild and exotic species. PAWS actively advocates on behalf of captive wildlife, and educates the public about issues affecting these animals in captivity and in the wild. PAWS established the first elephant sanctuary in the U.S. in 1986. Since then, 19 elephants have found refuge at the sanctuary. The animals at PAWS have come from zoos, circuses, and private owners; many of them had been subjected to abusive conditions and treatment. To ensure they have the most natural, intrusion-free lives possible, PAWS’ sanctuaries are not open to the public, with the exception of a limited number of educational events at ARK 2000. PAWS does not breed, sell, or rent its animals or make them perform.

Features other people