Creating a World with No Unwanted Pets
Since 1995, AC PAW has been dedicated to reducing the pain and suffering of animals caused by overpopulation. Founded by Brian Manley and June McGrath, our no-kill, non-profit animal rescue served as a safe haven for over 16,000 dogs and cats in Northern Michigan. AC PAW rescued these animals from abuse, hunger, disease, and certain death. AC PAW has also assisted thousands of pet owners who could no longer care for their pets by providing medical care and finding new safe homes for their pets.
AC Paw TodayIn 2023, after 28 years of rescuing dogs and cats, AC PAW transitioned to a public spay and neuter program and stopped intake of rescue pets.
Though the decision was difficult, we felt the weight of what seemed like a revolving door of animals in dire need and the stress and worry of never getting ahead of the problem. We fully recognize the importance of rescue but after so many years, we decided to tackle this problem from a new and different perspective. And in turn, our efforts will help to alleviate the stress on other local rescue groups.
Spay and Neuter has been an important focus and mission for AC PAW from DAY ONE. Now it is our FULL FOCUS. We believe that promoting spay and neutering of pets along with assisting the public with the sometimes overwhelming cost of having their pets “fixed” is the best way to get a handle on overpopulation and the suffering we witness every day.
As always, we are an all-volunteer 501C3 Non profit, so your donations go directly to supporting our mission. Monetary donations are used to fund our voucher program and veterinary spay/neuter clinics. Other ways to support us are through donations that include food and supplies used to feed feral cat colonies (where all cats are fixed) and to feed the pets of families in need, along with purchasing supplies for spay and neuter clinics.
Pet Overpopulation is Devastating
Pet overpopulation is a devastating problem both locally and across the United States. While people may see the cute puppies and kittens up for adoption, many are unaware of the tragic fates that befall animals without homes. Stray and feral cats are left to fend for themselves in the wild, facing disease and predators. Dogs often end up in shelters or backyards, confined to cages, and developing behavioral issues. These animals deserve better, and as a community, we need to do better.
Spaying and neutering is the single most effective way to curb pet overpopulation and prevent this cycle of suffering. AC PAW has always ensured that every animal passing through our rescue program was spayed or neutered before adoption, and this practice has saved countless lives. Sterilizing dogs and cats not only prevents unwanted litters but also offers many additional benefits, such as reducing marking and aggressive behaviors, preventing roaming, and helping to avoid painful medical issues like cancer, pyometra, and urinary or bowel conditions.
The AC PAW Spay & Neuter Project
In 2023, after nearly 30 years of animal rescue, AC PAW made the difficult decision to close our rescue operations. However, our commitment to creating a world with no unwanted pets remains unchanged. Now, we are turning our full attention to the AC PAW Spay & Neuter Project—an initiative that has always been central to our mission but is now our primary focus.
Through this project, we aim to reduce overpopulation by offering low-cost spay and neuter options to pet owners and educating the public about the importance of sterilization. Our dedicated volunteers are working hard to plan spay and neuter clinics, partner with veterinarians, and expand our voucher assistance program to make these life-saving procedures accessible to all.
How You Can HelpOngoing support from the community is vital to the success of the AC PAW Spay & Neuter Project. We are actively seeking grant funding and always appreciate the generosity of our supporters and friends, who have been the foundation of our efforts since day one.
Ways To Help AC PAW
Stay connected by signing up for our newsletter, following our Facebook page for updates on upcoming clinics, assistance programs, and ways to get involved. Together, we can create a future with no unwanted pets and a healthier, happier life for the animals in our care.