VA PAWS Mission/Goals

1) Education and Public Outreach: Companion animals are sentient beings for whom we are responsible. Tolerance or concealment of their suffering is unacceptable. Responsible breeding and ownership must replace and thereby eradicate irresponsible breeding and ownership to end the perpetual cycle of animal abuse and neglect.

2) Support and encourage other groups: All animal welfare organizations work toward the same goal: a world in which there are no unwanted, homeless, stray, neglected, abandoned, abused, or mistreated animals. We assist other organizations and foster mutual support between all groups regardless of differing philosophies. 

3) Promote policies incorporating animals into daily life: This includes not only "working" roles such as therapy dogs, search and rescue, and assistance animals, but also general inclusion in public life as supported by Canine Good Citizen and other programs.

4) Improve animal legislation at local and state levels: Strengthened protective legislation must be enacted at state and local levels to decrease overpopulation and require responsible pet ownership.

5) Rescue, placement, and referral: Homeless animals will be placed in sound homes independently and in conjunction with established rescue organizations. 

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