PAS (Pet Assistance & Support)

Bowie CLAW launched a new program in April 2009 called the Pet Assistance and Support (PAS) Program.  The purpose of this program is to help the citizens of Bowie who are responsible pet owners but due to job loss, pay cuts, or rising utility costs are struggling to feed their pets in this challenging economy.  For many pet owners, some of whom are elderly, the assistance they receive from the PAS Program has enabled them to keep their pets instead of making the heartbreaking decision of surrendering them to the shelter which is already overcrowded.  For many, their pet is the only family they have.

Since we began the program, we have served dozens of local families, and we are currently assisting over 30 dogs and over 30 cats.  The number of calls we receive is steadily growing.

Bowie CLAW is working in partnership with the Bowie Interfaith Food Pantry (where information about the PAS program is posted) and the qualifications for assistance through PAS are consistent with those that the food pantry already has in place.

Qualified citizens receive support for three months and then their situation is re-evaluated to determine whether continued assistance is needed.  In addition to pet food, Bowie CLAW has taken this program a few steps further.  In some cases, we are assisting families with spay/neuter services, vaccinations, and other veterinary care for sick animals.  When necessary, we are also helping them with transportation to and from the veterinary hospital.  In return for our assistance, we ask them to pay a few dollars if they can but more importantly, we ask that they “pay it forward” and help someone else in need.

If you need assistance through PAS, please contact us at bowieclaw@gmail.com.

If you would like to support us financially in this important effort, you may mail your tax deductible donation to Bowie CLAW, PO box 116, Bowie MD 20719, or use the Pay Pal plug-in on this website.  Please mark your donation “PAS program.”  We also graciously accept gift cards from Pet Smart or Petco.

If you would like donate supplies, you can drop off your donations of canned cat or dog food, dry cat or dog food, kitty litter, treats, and toys at drop off sites located at the following locations:

Bowie Gymnasium
4100 North View Drive
Bowie, MD 20716

Bowie Senior Center
14900 Health Center Drive
Bowie, MD 20715

Crunchies
2421 Crofton Lane
Crofton, MD 21114

Giant Food
15520 Annapolis Road
Bowie, MD 20715

Highway Vet
2604 Crain Highway
Bowie, MD 20716

Kenhill Center (old City Hall)
2614 Kenhill Drive
Bowie Md 20715

MOM’s Organic Market
6824 Race Track Road
Bowie, MD 20715

Petco
15505 Annapolis Road
Bowie, MD 20715