W.A.G.S. offers dogs a second chance

Photo by: Shaiyla Hakeem

Photo

Neighbors | Shaiyla Hakeem.Wags Canine Rescue members Pam Owsowitz (left), Mary Jo Nagy, Roxanne Sherman, Deanne Taylor and Benjamin Taylor sit outside of Petsmart in Boardman May 1. They brought adoptable pets from their shelter in celebration of National Adopt a Pet Weekend.

Orphaned dogs spent time looking for a new home during the Second Chance for Love National Adoption Weekend.

In celebration of the national event, Columbiana’s W.A.G.S. Canine Rescue brought adoptable canines to Boardman’s PETCO for pet lovers to check out. The event lasted from April 30 through Sunday and featured different dogs each day.

W.A.G.S. was founded in June 2004 and operates out of shelter homes and the Ohio State Penitentiary in Hubbard. It is comprised of all volunteers and is funded through donations and fundraisers.

Pam Owsowitz, W.A.G.S. team member, said most of the dogs are strays or rescued from the pound and owners who can no longer care for the pet. Their organization treats the pets’ wounds, gives them medication and treats them like a part of the family instead of like an animal.

“The guys at the prison keep them bathed, they love for them to be clean and happy,” Owsowitz said.

Poland’s Marilyn Johnstone said she loves animals and hasn’t had one since she had to put her dog to sleep. Johnstone made her way to PETCO unexpectedly, but filled out an adoption application and may soon be adding another member to her family.

“I just stopped in for gas and decided to come by and see the dogs,” she said. “I’m looking for that special one.”

All animals adopted through W.A.G.S. are either neutered or spayed and have received all their shots. A fee of $150 is charged, but the pet comes with a satisfaction guaranteed policy.

“We have a right of return policy for life,” she said. “We will help you with any behavior or obedience issue. We want to make sure your satisfied.”