Love Animals? Don’t Overlook West Sound PAWS Annual Gala Sunday at Kiana Lodge. KEDA Holding its Economic Forecast Luncheon April 2 at the Casino

Last year, West Sound PAWS – formerly PAWS of Bainbridge Island – celebrated its 50^th anniversary with a look back at its development and history. This time around, the focus is on Second Chances at Happily Ever After. On March 29^th, this coming Sunday, West Sound PAWS will once again return to Kiana Lodge in Poulsbo to celebrate storybook endings made possible by the community’s generosity.

For more information and to buy tickets for the 2026 Gala visit: https://pawsbink.org/paws-gala/

In 2025, the organization was able to shelter 13 Pregnant cats, provide more than $96,000 in clinical care, donate 7,000 pounds of pet food to local food banks, welcome 77 Kittens, and find forever homes for over 200 cats,” said the West Sound PAWS’ spokesperson Ever Kipp.

Founded in 1975 as an all-volunteer grassroots organization, PAWS – the Progressive Animal Welfare Society – of Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap has become a touchstone for animal welfare in the region, and a treasured part of the community, Kipp said. “Today PAWS is a professionally managed, community-supported organization which, through education, awareness, and financial aid, works to reduce pet overpopulation and the unnecessary euthanasia of healthy, adoptable animals whilst facilitating responsible, caring relationships between people and their feline and canine companions.”

While originally focused on adoption and spay and neuter practices, with the help of donations and grants, “our assistance to the communities of Bainbridge Island, Kingston, Poulsbo, and Silverdale has grown to include veterinary assistance for low-income families, temporary housing of cats for families in crisis, pet owner counseling on animal welfare and behavior issues, and much more,” Kipp explained. “When combined with a vibrant and growing focus on community outreach, PAWS advocates, educates, and provides direct services to nurture the bond of companionship between pets and their people; for the health and well-being of both. The staff works side-by-side with PAWS volunteers to manage all aspects of their work.”

While PAWS celebrates all facets of the human-animal bond, their primary role is serving as an advocate for animals,” Kipp further noted. “Working to further the cause, they are committed to educational outreach and have partnered with local school districts, Scouting troops, Kitsap Public Library, Bainbridge Prepares, Village Green Community Center, Bainbridge Senior Center, Kitsap Community Foundation, Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribal Center, Fishline House, and Helpline House to spread awareness about PAWS’s mission.”

In light of this year’s Gala theme, what’s an example of a Happy Ever After situation for an animal at West Sound PAWS? Kipp explained:

“At just 11 months old, Xena, a sweet pit bull–husky mix should have been discovering the world –  chasing toys, learning new tricks, and soaking up love. Instead, her young life took a frightening turn when she was struck by a car.”

“Though Xena survived the accident, she was left with a painful cracked tooth and injuries that required urgent veterinary care.”

“Through West Sound PAWS’ emergency financial assistance program, help arrived just in time. Donor support made it possible for her to receive immediate veterinary care, including treatment for her damaged tooth and follow-up medical support. Relief replaced panic. Pain gave way to healing. And a young dog who had endured far too much was finally able to rest, recover, and begin again.”

“Emergency care is often the difference between life and loss. In moments of crisis, families don’t have time to plan; they need immediate support. Because of generous donors, we are able to step in when it matters most, ensuring that accidents and sudden medical emergencies don’t become tragedies.”

“Today, this once-injured puppy is back to doing what Xena does best: playing hard, loving deeply, and embracing every joyful moment. Xena’s story is a powerful reminder that your compassion creates second chances… and sometimes saves lives.:

2025 In Numbers

3 Pregnant cats sheltered

8 Cats protected by Safe Harbor

$96,000+ Spent on clinical care (serving both dogs and cats) Includes over $40,000 in direct costs for vet assistance provided to low-income households.

7,000+  pounds. of pet food donated to local food banks for low-income households.

77  Kittens welcomed

200+ Cats adopted 

3,000+ Community Member visits to our shelters