Paaws Antigua has emptied its animal shelter for the first time in three decades, after the last remaining dog, Spot, was moved into foster care, the organisation announced in a social media update.
The milestone comes after months of uncertainty following the charity’s announcement in August that it would be closing its facility. In the post, Paaws said its “final four dogs — Shirley, Spot, Gabby and Shelly-Ann — are now all with fosters,” marking an emotional turning point for staff and supporters.
Shelly-Ann is the only dog still in need of a semi-permanent home and is currently boarding at Pet Style and Resort while efforts continue to secure a long-term placement.
Photos shared by the organisation showed Spot appearing nervous as he left the kennel he had known his entire life. Paaws noted that he had only been outside the shelter “for a couple of short walks or to visit the vet.”
“It’s been a huge upheaval for all of them,” the group wrote, adding that the animals will be given time to adjust to their new environments. Paaws said it hopes at least two of the dogs become “foster fails,” meaning their temporary carers decide to adopt them permanently.
In thanking its supporters, the organisation described the past months as “incredibly tense — and heart-wrenching,” but expressed relief that they had almost reached “the summit of what seemed in August… like an impossible mountain to climb.”
Paaws Antigua says updates on the dogs’ progress will be shared as they settle into their new homes.
