Arizona Animal Welfare League, Inc.
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April 12, 2013
I adopted my 1st dog from AAWL in 2005. He is perfect in every way. :) A few years ago, I returned and became a canine foster parent. It has been an amazing experience. Gaby, the foster coordinator, is a pleasure to work with! They allow me to select which pups I foster and they are flexible with appointments for vaccinations and medical care. When I have to travel they take the foster pups back until I return. I have successfully fostered 13 dogs and recently adopted the last one. As a puppy she needed training. Shen recently attended Fast-Trak obedience training with Dianne Decker and her behavior has improved exponentially. I recommend AAWL to everyone i know and volunteer setting up the silent auction events at their annual fund raiser. Everyone is great at their jobs and they save a lot of lives. Keep up the excelllent work.
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Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2013
March 26, 2013
Patti,
With all do respect, I don't know you and had never had contact with you, therefore, I hardly feel that you have any idea of the level of my anger. Yes I was upset. I adopted an animal, became attached and just spent over $600 in 2 weeks. Who wouldn't be upset? I'm sure you yourself would be as well! I was far from out of hand in any way to your staff so I would like to clarify that first and foremost. I would also like to add that we were not offered a free vet appointment. We were offered an appointment but I was specifically told that the visit would be $50 so we took the cat to our vet. As far as your provider being low cost, I find it funny that $50 is the same price that my normal vet charged. I would also like to bring your attention to the plethora of negative reviews that I have seen on other sites. (i.e. Yelp) It does not appear that I am the only person in the valley that has had a negative experience through your organization. I would like to apologize for the delay in response to your rebuttal but it was just brought to my attention that you responded. As you might tell, I am still disheartened about the whole situation . I'm sorry if you feel that I did not act in a way that you would have felt appropriate, but I do not feel that your organization did half as much as it could have to resolve the situation so we all could have come out winners. For me, it was not about receiving a refund, it was about helping an innocent cat that was ill and needed to be taken care of so it could have stayed placed with a more than loving and providing family. Regardless, I'm sure this might fall on deaf ears so I wish you well and I hope that you all do a better job in the future when it comes to the WELFARE of the animals in your custody. Thank you.
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Will you volunteer or donate to this organization?
No
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
Some
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
December 17, 2012
I recently adopted an cat from the AZ AWL through Petco and I must say, It was the worst experience I have ever had adopting an animal. The cat was so sweet. She had diarehea at Petco but we were told she was healthy. We brought her home and she immediately fit right in. 2 days later we had to take her to the vet because she was so sick she wouldn't eat. Her temperatire reached 105.7 and she spent the next 2 and a half days in the hospital on IV and meds to reduce the fever. We contacted AZ AWL and were pretty much told that we were on our own. We adopted, it is our problem. They offered for us to bring the cat in and exchange for a new one as if she was a malfunctioning TV. Karen in the catery was somewhat helpful and caring but her hands were tied due to supervision. The cat started to feel better but then a few days later she got an eye infection. Back to the vet!! Then the same night she got an infection on her ears and due to the fact that I had just spent over $600 dollars in less than 2 weeks, we had no choice but to return her. The cat should have never been up for adoption. She was sick from the get go. Janna the head of the catery lied to us on a few ocassions stating that we could return the cat and they would get her healthy and we could re adopt. Not true. What we were really told was that we could relinquish rights and then someone would call and let us know what store she was at and when so we could go re-adpot. Wow! Why would I pay another adoption fee. Luckily, they refunded my adoption fee but i was sad to have to return the cat. If they care so much about the welfare of animals, they should really pay attention to their health a little better. I will never adopt another animal now and I strongly urge people to consider the outcomes should an incident like this ever occur again.
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Will you volunteer or donate to this organization?
No
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
Some
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
December 20, 2012
To sjenks06 - I am so sorry that you found your experience with us unacceptable. It is unfortunate that we weren’t informed about the diarrhea the cat experienced at the off-site location. It is our policy when informed by the stores, that the animal comes back to us and gets looked at by our veterinarian. We stand behind our animals even though their health cannot always be predicted.
I researched your case after reading your complaint. It sounds like my team had difficulty with the level of anger you were exhibiting. They did everything they could to find a resolution; offering you an appointment at our low cost public clinic, for the cat to be seen by our shelter vet at no cost, assistance in filing a medical insurance claim, and to return the cat so we could care for it. We offered you another cat because many times people request that option rather than taking the cat back after treatment. None of these options worked for you, so we refunded the adoption fee.
I wish that we could predict the health of all our animals. These animals are exposed to so much stress by being moved and shown in public places. The cat was with us for quite some time, was one of our foster kittens, and the only issue it ever had was a cold for a short period of time.
I hope, with all sincerity, that you find a cat that brings you happiness.
Patti DuBois, Director of Shelter Operations
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Will you volunteer or donate to this organization beyond what is required of advisors?
Definitely
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
Some
Will you tell others about this organization?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
October 29, 2012
This is a very professionaly-run animal rescue organization with so many different services - they are so much more than an animal "shelter". They have a wonderful new low-cost vet center where anyone can take their animals for treatments or vaccines or whatever they need. They have a great dog training program which I used with great success. They have a whole education department with kids programs and summer camps. They have hundreds of volunteers and I looked into fostering some puppies which I hope to do next year when I get settled in my new home. I can't say enough good things about them and the people that work there. They also get great ratings from charity rating groups which is very important to my husband and me. They have a beautiful new building and the animals look so happy and well cared for - they have toys and soft bedding and I love the way everyone knows their names and all about them. They really get to know the animals - they don't just "hand them out" like some groups do. I can't say enough good things about them.
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Was your donation impactful?
Definitely
How likely is it that you would recommend that a friend donate to this group?
Definitely
How likely are you to donate to this group again?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
January 27, 2012
AAWL is a unique organization in that it devotes the time and resources necessary to find a perfect home for each animal it takes in - and that's more than 3,000 animals a year. Now, with a new adoption center and other off-site locations that are in the works, they will save almost double that number in the future. There is no better animal welfare organization in Arizona and deserves support from everyone who cares for homeless animals.
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How does this organization compare with others in the same sector?
Very Well
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
Life-changing
Will you recommend this organization to others?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
1 person found this review helpful
January 30, 2012
1 person found this review helpful
Many cat and dog lovers think "It would be a good thing for me to volunteer at a shelter." But they think it will be emotionally draining. When people find out I volunteer at AAWL, they ask "How do you do it?" The fact that AAWL is a no-kill shelter was a large factor in my decision. I now train volunteers and I tell them "When you leave at the end of a shift, you will feel good!" Even on long days when I am driving home tired and dirty, I feel I've done something worthwhile. I have made a difference in fighting Maricopa County's disgraceful statistic as the second largest area in the country for unwanted and euthanized pets. At AAWL I have worked a lot with the dogs; many of whom are right off the truck from "the pound". I talk to them and I say "I know you are scared and confused. You may have lived on the streets, you may have been abused, you may have been abandoned by your owners. But don't worry. Everyone here will treat you well. You just have to wait for your people to come for you." So that is how I look at it. We are just taking care of these animals until their forever families come for them. And that is rewarding work. While offering the expected activites caring for cats and dogs, AAWL offers volunteers many other activities. I have enjoyed working with the cats, dogs, reception, clerical, the clinic, off-site events, adoption counseling, training other volunteers, special events, and working with the various critters in the Education Department. As a designer and former teacher, I especially like taking on "odd jobs" such as researching a dog walking program for cardiac patients, working on AAWL training materials, reviewing plans for the new shelter, or painting a mural. AAWL can probably find a way to use any skills,interests, or talents that volunteers bring with them. And that feels good.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
A lot
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Quite well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
1 person found this review helpful
January 27, 2012
1 person found this review helpful
We heard about the shelter from a friend. Our dog passed away in October and have been wanting another. It is so much better to adopt a dog in need than to purchase one so we decided to keep looking at the shelter. We visited the shelter a few times for volunteer training and to look at dogs. Each time was a pleasant experience. My friend told us about these puppies and when we saw them were in love. They are brother and sister and we wanted to keep them together. The adoption was easy and everyone involved was very professional and helpful. There is plenty of information and a surprise insurance plan for a month. We will try to be more involved with the shelter through volunteering in the future.
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How would you describe the help you got from this organization?
A lot
How likely are you to recommend this organization to a friend?
Definitely
How do you feel you were treated by this organization?
Very Well
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
1 person found this review helpful
January 26, 2012
1 person found this review helpful
I became a volunteer at AAWL in September 2011 and have thoroughly enjoyed every minute so far. Working with these dogs has truly become a passion for me and I can't imagine doing anything else. Volunteering at AAWL has literally become "what I do" and "who I am". My favorite thing to do is work with a new dog at the shelter who is very shy and nervous about being in this new strange place. I love spending time with them, watching them grow on a daily basis and helping them find a new family to spend the rest of their lives with. Gordon W., Chandler, AZ
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
My Role: Volunteer & I have assisted in the administration department doing data entry utilizing a fundraising software program, sent emails, assisted with mailings, run a few errands, assisted patrons, helped with collating, been trained for dog walking "Buddy Day," assisted.
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1 person found this review helpful
January 26, 2012
1 person found this review helpful
Exceptional, outstanding, caring, wonderful, much needed, priceless, hardworking, committed and irreplaceable are just a few words to describe the Arizona Animal Welfare Leage & SPCA, Arizona's Oldest & Largest No-Kill Shelter. The AAWL's entire staff, board of directors & volunteers go above and beyond to assist, care for, help and nurture dogs & cats. On a daily basis, 365 days a year, their goal is to save the lives of dogs & cats. This is no simple endeavor, yet they do it with extreme care, excellent organization, proactive communication, tenacity, kindness, integrity, smiles & joy. The AAWL excels at saving the lives of animals who would otherwise be euthanized, assisting with care & control of over population of animals by spaying & neutering all animals that come through the shelter/are up for adoption, education programs for the community & their genuine concern and love of animals which is exemplified each day through great care of the animals which includes feeding, observations, cleaning, assessment of the animals during intake, medication/health/medical treatment if needed, training, fostering programs, fundraising, events and lots of tender loving care. What the AAWL has been able to achieve & hopes to achieve in the future is awe inspiring & a true example of an outstanding non-profit. Sincerely, Melissa A.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
I would say that I personally experienced the results of this organization from my first walk through of the AAWL with Emily Asche. The kennels are so clean, smelled clean, the animals look so well taken care of as I know they are, the staff is proactive & works diligently daily with care that shows in their daily interractions with the animals. I've also been able to see the attention the animals get from the staff which is unending. Plus I know of cases where animals were in very difficult circumstances & the medical team at AAWL went into action to save them. Also, the volunteers that come in to walk the dogs, interract with the cats, do laundry, answer phones, foster the animals, basically assist in any way they can is wonderful as well.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
I would have all the staff wear name tags on a daily basis so that volunteers could verbally see the name with the face of the wonderful staff at AAWL.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
Did your volunteer experience have an effect on you? (teaching you a new skill, or introducing new friends, etc.)
It has been great. I am so impressed with AAWL. It has had a positive effect on me as I look forward to going to AAWL & volunteering there. I have had the opportunity to meet & talk with fabu staff, i.e. Emily, Amber, Dianne, Kay & other staff members which has been great. Also, I feel I am making a difference & that volunteering at AAWL has meaning. Plus I am learning so much about all the organization it takes in running this truly impressive non-profit no-kill animal shelter.
How did this volunteer experience make you feel?
Positively positive, amazing, happy & lucky to be part of the Arizona Animal Welfare League & SPCA team as well as so greatful that AAWL exists in Arizona. Volunteering @ the AAWL makes me feel like I am making a meaningful difference & that makes me feel really good.
1 person found this review helpful
January 26, 2012
1 person found this review helpful
I am part of an email rescue network. Three years ago there was a dog featured at the County Animal Shelter that needed medical help. My husband and I literally fell in love with the picture. AAWL, an organization that rescues dogs and cats off the e-lists at County and Arizona Humane Society, rescued that dog. He underwent numerous surgeries to reconnect his ear and reduce the infected areas. My husband and I decided on the spot that since AAWL was giving this boy a chance, we would do what we could to "pay them back" so of course we adopted him and started our volunteer career there. I have been astounded by the numerous services and the caring people that work and volunteer there. They not only rescue animals from the e-lists from the above organizations; they will take medically needy animals because of the full-time Veterinary support. In another vein, AAWL has camps for children, starting with the very young and up through teenagers, that promote love and respect for all animals. The intent is to help break the cycle of abuse as early as possible. The children have interaction with exotic rescued animals, as well as dogs and puppies and cats and kittens. AAWL also offers low-cost veterinary service for the community, which is sorely needed. They promote programs ie “The Last Litter” program which will take the momma dog and the puppies, spay and neuter them all for free, give mama back to the family and adopt out the puppies. This has been very successful. The animals that are under the care of AAWL, get clean kennels and bedding, medical care, social interaction with staff and volunteers, walks and exercise (biking), lots of love and attention, and start learning behavioral expectations. This is all in preparation for finding them the perfect loving fur-ever home. AAWL promotes adopt, foster, spay/neuter and donate! Those are words to live by in our world. I can’t tell you how proud I am that I can be a small part of this wonderful organization. I highly recommend it to everyone. This organization saves numerous lives! There were over 3000 adoptions last year alone. AAWL is a winner all around for animals!!!
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
1 person found this review helpful
January 25, 2012
1 person found this review helpful
My husband and I have been volunteering at AAWL for over 2 years. They do a great job at the events given how much organization is required. Everyone at the AAWL is very dedicated to helping the animals. Other volunteers have been there for many years so that tells me they have been acknowledged and feel valued. I love the place so much that I hope to be employed there some day soon and make my own contribution to this wonderful place. Sure, sometimes communication isn't as good as it might be but the logistics involved in,say, an offsite adoption event can be very difficult and things can change but everyone just takes a deep breath and gets on with it for the animals sake and this is everyone's priority. We love AAWL!
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Seeing many animals adopted and then being able to assist with their training.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Add myself as an employee!
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
A lot
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
What one change could this group make that would improve your volunteer experience?
Nothing, in my opinion they treat us well and We certainly feel valued. The volunteer department does a great job and are always so upbeat lovely ladies, all of them.
Did your volunteer experience have an effect on you? (teaching you a new skill, or introducing new friends, etc.)
Yes, we have a pet sitting/ dog training business and working at the shelter has made us want to learn more about shelter operations as a business...so that is what I hope to do. This would enhance our knowledge of shelter work and how we can promote it to our pet sitting and training clients and the general public.
How did this volunteer experience make you feel?
There is a famous quote and I am not sure who said it (possibly Gandhi)...."All that is not given is lost" and that is the good feeling it gives us. What goes around comes back around to you!
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