Poverty's Pets

Phoenix Animal Welfare Solutions (P.A.W.S.) consists of a group of concerned citizens who believe the state of animal welfare in the City of Phoenix to be inconsistent, insufficient and neglectful. Animal abuse continues to go unchecked in our underserved communities. We are advocating for cost effective changes regarding how the City of Phoenix addresses animal abuse, neglect and suffering in these communities. Our objective is simple: pet-owners must be held accountable, but this is only possible with adequate laws, enforcement, and joint efforts across departments. Poverty’s Pet was founded in 2006 by Kate Sivolella. As its name indicates, Poverty’s Pets aims to improve the lives of companion animals in low-income and under served communities. With a focus on free spay and neuter clinics, Poverty’s Pets continues to work to bring an end to animal suffering. In 2008, “The Columbus House” was established, earning its name after Kate’s first rescue dog, Columbus. This safe- house has seen nearly 1200 dogs pass through as they made their way to forever homes. Today every dog is cared for by Connie and Josh, who live at the house and love each dog as their own as they transition from stray to being adopted. Once castaways, to a beloved family member.

To end suffering and overpopulation of animals in low-income and underserved communities with a focus on spay and neuter.