October News: Marathon Miracle, Surviving Parvo, and Disabled Kittens Get Adopted

Dear John,

TEAM PAWS runner Sarah Bohan was on pace to shatter her personal record during the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on October 8 when, at Mile 21, a scared, matted stray cat caught her eye. Instead of continuing on in the race, Bohan immediately stopped to tend to the white kitten.

“There’s so much noise and this was in a darker area under a bridge, and this poor baby was obviously separated from his mother,” said Bohan, a hospital social worker from Boston. “From that moment on, I threw my personal record aside and this became my job for the rest of the race.”

Bohan was joined by a fellow animal-loving runner, Gia Nigro, and together they walked the next mile asking spectators if they could care for the kitten. They found a Good Samaritan who agreed to take the kitten in.

PAWS Chicago posted pictures on social media of Bohan handing the kitten to a woman on the route, and we asked for help identifying her; within an hour, the PAWS community identified her as Andrea Maldonado. She's a realtor and mother of three daughters, a baby son, two cats and a dog, who told us she figured, "What's one more?" when she accepted the kitten.

She named the kitten Casper, and she and her daughters carefully removed his fleas and helped him gain weight. They brought him to PAWS just days later for his first veterinary exam, vaccines, and preventative treatments. As soon as he reaches two pounds he will soon return for his neuter procedure and further vaccines and treatments.

Sarah’s story has resonated far and wide. So far, more than 360 stories have run internationally, with a collective reach of over a billion readers and viewers, including People Magazine, United Press International, and Business Insider.

Run with Sarah in next year’s race and Make Your Miles Matter. Join TEAM PAWS today and get an automatic entry into next year’s BOA Chicago Marathon.

Join TEAM PAWS

Stephen’s Second Chance

This 6-month-old pup was minutes away from euthanasia. Now, he has a full, happy life ahead!

How Stephen Survived

October Adoption Events

Big Love

Saturday, 10/28, & Sunday, 10/29
Pippen Fasseas Adoption Center
1997 N. Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

We’re making a big deal about big dogs at PAWS! For one weekend only, we’re taking ½ OFF ADOPTION FEES for dogs 40 pounds+ thanks to our sponsors, the Kushen and Ethridge Families.*

If you’re a sucker for the comfort of a heavy head resting on your knee and paws the size of your palm, then this event is for you. Make sure to reserve your adoption appointment before we fill up.

Pup Pop-Up

Saturday, 11/4, 6–9 p.m.
Pippen Fasseas Adoption Center
1997 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

Usually, adopters meet adoptable foster pups one at a time. Finding the right match can take time and several adoption appointments. But with the Pup Pop-Up, you can make a reservation to meet tons of potential new friends from foster homes in an evening.

Please note: These dogs are happiest in homes without small children and may be selective about other pets.

North Shore New Friend

Saturday, 11/4, noon–3 p.m.
Glenn L. Felner North Shore Adoption Center
1616 Deerfield Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035

Calling all animal lovers in the northern suburbs! PAWS is bringing adoptable dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens to Highland Park for an afternoon of mixing, mingling, and shaking paws. With luck, your family will be a little larger when you leave.

Fashion Outlets of Chicago

Saturday, 11/11, & Saturday,12/2, noon–3 p.m.
5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont, IL 60018 (in front of Forever 21)

The only thing better than a bargain is sharing it with a new best friend. PAWS is bringing adoptable dogs to the outlet mall in Rosemont. We’ll be stationed outside of Forever 21, so make sure to stop by—you might just find the perfect, furry fit.

Reminder: To adopt right away, please make sure to bring your whole household and any resident dogs.

More Adoptable Pets

Volunteer of the Month: Robin Larson

“I have always loved animals, and I'm proud to be a small part of PAWS' mission to make Chicago a No-Kill city.”

Meet Robin

Apply to be an intern!

Gain valuable experience in animal welfare and non-profit work with Chicago’s largest No Kill organization. A national leader in the No Kill movement, PAWS Chicago offers a variety of internships for college students seeking career experience and training by industry professionals.

Applications due by November 15.

Tell Me More

Pet of the Month: Juniper

Juniper is a ball of energy with love to spare. She makes silly sounds while she’s playing or curious—you just have to hear it. And when she rests her big head in your lap, it’s over-the-moon cute. Here’s a first-hand account of Juniper’s perky personality:

“When she was at the Medical Center, she was so amusing. Whenever you walked into her room to visit, she would wrestle and tumble with her toys and she would want you to join in by throwing them over to you. On walks, she would hug you at random. She was a character for sure, and sweet,” said Andrea Gonzalez, PAWS Chicago Animal Caregiver.

Juniper is looking for a family who will give her lots of play time, training, and attention. She’s also available for our foster-to-adopt program, which offers free care and training support while you get to know each other. Can you give Juniper the love she deserves?

Take Juniper Home

You Complete Me

Davey was the runt of his litter, and his front limbs weren’t fully formed. Glenda was born with her back legs not fully formed. They arrived at PAWS within two weeks of each other. And on October 13, they were adopted together!

See What Happened

Our mailing address is:
1997 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

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