Cyndy Acox Webb
What originally drew you to PAWS Chicago?
I was drawn to PAWS Chicago while searching for a place that offered lower-cost spay/neuter surgery for dogs. I was informed by an individual on my mail route that there was a “new low-cost place to get cats fixed.” I learned about the importance of spaying and neutering your pets from my hero, Mr. Bob Barker, and so I have been badgering people to get their cats fixed since the 1970’s. I have been volunteering for PAWS Chicago for nearly three years.
Do you have a primary focus when you volunteer?
Because I live on the south side of Chicago and am only five miles from PAWS, I volunteer at PAWS Chicago’s Rescue & Recovery Center on 26th Street.
Is there a favorite experience that has stood out during your time as a volunteer at PAWS Chicago?
A favorite story is when I brought in 28 cats for a “Feral Cat Day” where PAWS would spay/neuter the cats. My friend and I stayed up all night looking for and trapping feral cats. Come to think of it, we have done that quite a few times!
How does what do you do for a career apply to what you do as a volunteer?
I am a retired Mail Carrier. I usually had peanuts for the squirrels, dog biscuits, cat food, and bird seeds to feed “my friends” on my route. I always talked about spay/neuter, and when needed, I made appointments and picked up individual’s pets for surgery on my day off.
Why do you volunteer for PAWS Chicago?
I feel that PAWS Chicago has done so much for me to help the animals, that volunteering is one way to say “thank you for all your kindness.”
Do you have any pets at home?
Yes, a sweet dog named Bea and two wonderful kitties, Ming the Merciless and Sliky.
Have you participated in any PAWS Chicago special events?
Several community outreach tabling events, where we informed the public about the services PAWS Chicago offers.
What value has volunteering at PAWS Chicago brought you?
When I volunteer on Saturdays, I get a chance to see the animals who have come from the pound (and other places). Some of these cats and dogs may have burns, broken bones, need limbs amputated, are blind, or have other disabilities – and PAWS still helps them. It’s amazing knowing they have a new life ahead of them because of PAWS.