For Rescue Organisations
Rescue organisations know better than anyone the difference a safe, loving home can make to an animal’s life. Paws & Connect exists to build on the incredible work you’re already doing by creating carefully considered connections between rescue animals, young people and families.
We see rescue organisations as valued partners in this process. By working together, we can help more animals find safe and suitable homes, while giving young people the opportunity to develop meaningful relationships through connection, responsibility and caregiving.
Our approach is also about strengthening the wider community around animal rescue. Through schools, youth groups, community organisations and other settings, Paws & Connect can help promote understanding of animal welfare, responsible animal care and the important role rescue organisations play. Where appropriate, this includes encouraging greater awareness of fostering and the difference that opening a home to a rescue animal can make.
By helping more people understand the realities of rescue, the needs of animals waiting for homes, and the many ways they can contribute, we hope to help build a stronger network of support around rescue organisations and the animals in their care.
Our approach is designed to complement the work you already do — with thoughtful matching, clear communication, ongoing support and a strong commitment to animal welfare. Together, we can create connections that are positive, sustainable and genuinely beneficial for animals, young people, families and the wider rescue community.
Animal Welfare
Animal welfare is fundamental to Paws & Connect. We believe animals are partners in the relationship, never tools for achieving an outcome for young people.
We work alongside rescue organisations to ensure that each connection is carefully considered, with the animal’s temperament, history, needs and wellbeing taken into account alongside the needs and circumstances of the young person and family.
Our partnerships are built around shared responsibility, open communication and ongoing support. If a placement is not working, we work collaboratively with the rescue organisation to determine the best path forward, always prioritising the wellbeing of both the animal and the young person.
Our commitment to animal welfare is also reflected in our governance, safeguarding and evaluation processes.
Animal Welfare Outcomes
Short-term
- Observable reduction in stress-related behaviours (where these can be reasonably noted by program staff or carers)
- Evidence of voluntary approach, relaxed body language and positive engagement with the young person
- Consistent meeting of species-appropriate physical and behavioural needs
Intermediate
- Improved behavioural stability and confidence in the home environment
- Successful adaptation to routines and family life
- Evidence of increasing trust, security and comfort within the household
Longer-term
- Secure, lasting placement (foster progression to adoption or successful direct adoption)
- Sustained physical health, behavioural wellbeing and quality of life
- Reduced likelihood of return to shelter or repeated disruption
