I would give them 6 stars if it was possible. What the staff and volunteers are able to do for so many different species of wildlife is beyond amazing. Add their education programs directly to the public as well as their social media is just as inspirational. They don’t just go in day say “bad people, hurt animals”. They explain how often well meaning people cause unintended harm, educate the public in how to live harmoniously with local wildlife and share the entire process from intake to rehab to release. We become vested, it feels personal even if you are thousands of miles away. In summary, it is a stellar non profit!!
PAWS Animal Wildlife Sanctuary did an amazing presentation for our sixth graders. She brought four non releasable birds of prey, a barred owl, a barn owl, a red shoulder hawk, and a great horned owl. The students were awe-struck just at the sight of these beautiful birds. She relayed facts about all of them and encouraged questions from the children. They learned about habitats, food, hunting, and dangers these animals face. She spoke to the students about ways they could contribute to the longevity of these beautiful animals. We will definitely invite PAWS back every year!
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I am a new volunteer for PAWS Animal Wildlife Sanctuary, and I have never seen such hard work and dedication by MAC and her volunteers in rehabilitating all types of animals in all kinds of conditions. I have learned a great deal about animal rehabilitation from MAC, who has so much knowledge to share and is so willing to share it, not just to her volunteers but to the community at large.
I read about a skunk that they brought in that was in terrible shape - too weak to move, so bad that they didn't think he would make it. But looks like with supportive care, he may be ok.
I knew it was critical not to move them out of their territory, but this little guy's story broke my heart. They really went out of their way to save him.
Just leave it alone if you have a skunk around and it will do the same for you. They don't attack, all they do is provide free bug control. After all, it's their world too. There's room for all of us.
Your story was great and I didn’t know that skunks only ate bugs. I’m very appreciative of your kindness and patience. He absolutely deserved his next chance at life. People do such unnecessary cruel things. I’m grateful for all you did for the little skunk. I can’t say thank you enough.
I have financial challenges right now, but I hope to one day be able to contribute. The least I could do was write to you about you for you. And share your story
Dalzenia Sams, Houston, Texas
I was a student intern for PAWS for a whole summer and I loved it so much! I was able to work hands on with animals learning skills in animal husbandry and critical thinking in understanding animal behavior. PAWS helped build a passions for animal rescue and rehabilitation within me and has inspired me to pursue a career in this realm.
Mac's wildlife work with PAWS left me at a loss for words. With her soft voice and calm demeanor, she gains the trust of every animal she works with. This allows her to heal their physical and mental wounds, and prepare them for a hopeful return to the wild. She taught me the importance of "asking the animals for permission" before handling, a skill that no textbook can teach you. I'm very grateful for the experience and look forward to learning more from her.
I have been a volunteer at Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary since 2011. I have witnessed many rescues, rehabs, and releases. Our head rehabber Mac, goes the extra mile to give every wildlife creature that comes in, a chance to rehab and release. Paws hold licenses / permits for all wildlife species found in SC. I love what we do in giving these special wildlife creatures, a second chance to be wild and free.
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Every orphaned / injured animal deserves a chance, and that's exactly what they receive from Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary Inc. I volunteer as transporter for wildlife, and have witnessed first hand the exceptional care and concern that each animal receives. Whether it has been an owl or hawk hooked by a fishing lure, a skunk entrapped by slurpee lids around its neck, a goose entangled by fishing line around its leg, or an animal that is dehydrated and starving to death, each one is given that chance to recover from its injuries, and regain its freedom to live free once again. All of these animals were rehabbed and released.
I’m so thankful for Mac and her team of volunteers at PAWS. Without them so much of our wildlife would suffer and not be able to be reintroduced to their natural habitat. As a former volunteer I can vouch for her work and where your donations to PAWS go! She’s an amazing person and I’m so thankful to know her! ❤️
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I have been volunteering with Paws for about 12 years now. I love being a part of this wonderful organization. I mostly help on the call center, where we answer calls from people who have found wild animals that are injured or otherwise in need of help. We accept most species at Paws and help direct callers to other rehabbers who take the few we do not. We get calls from all over South Carolina, and even from people in other states--we keep listings of rehabbers in other areas so we can help callers find someone closer to their location and tell them how to keep the animal comfortable and safe until help is found. I have worked for veterinarians and animal shelters over the years and have quite a bit of experience working with domestic animals, but working with Paws has been my first experience working with wildlife. I've learned so much--and there is always more to learn! I love seeing some of our callers become so interested in what we do at Paws that they become volunteers themselves. It's especially rewarding to help people learn how to better understand wild animals and learn to coexist with them.
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I love Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary! I have been an active volunteer with them for about 13 years now, and am so proud to be a part of an organization that does so much to help wildlife. I volunteer on our call center, and make arts and crafts to sell for fundraisers, and occasionally help in our booths at events to help educate the public about wildlife. I love being able to help educate people how to coexist peacefully with wildlife and to help folks understand that they do not need to fear animals that are misunderstood. It's so gratifying to see animals recover and be able to be released back to the wild. Our group leader, Mac Curry, has such empathy and understanding with animals--it's amazing to see her interact with them and how they respond to her. I've learned so much in the years I've been volunteering with Paws--my fellow volunteers are family and Paws is a big part of my life!
I’ve worked as a volunteer with this Sanctuary for over ten years! I’ve never seen a non-profit accomplish so much with so few financial resources! At 78 years old, I can’t do what used to, either physically or financially, but I will always be a strong supporter and one of their biggest fans!
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I’ve volunteered as a transporter with PAWS for many years. I have never seen a non- profit accomplish so much with so little, with so much compassion!
At 77, I can no longer do what I used to, but it is my privilege to still be able to help this outstanding organization.
PAWS Animal Wildlife Sanctuary is an amazing organization. I first encountered them when I found an injured bat. It was so comforting to call and have a volunteer on the other end coach me through the process of safely retrieving him and getting him into PAWS care. I was so impressed with this organization that I became a volunteer. The founder and chief rehabber has incredible skill, knowledge, integrity and compassion. Watching her work is truly a thing of beauty. She loves each and every animal that comes through her door and works tirelessly to save them.
Paws animal wildlife sanctuary is a great organization that helps so many! They are very hardworking and truly care for the animals they bring in and try to educate the public constantly. They are so appreciated.
I've been supporting PAWS financially for quite a while now, because I value wildlife and this is Important Work.
Earlier this year I had opportunity to talk to MAC and learned that there are things I can do to help out even though I can't commit to a regular schedule due to my job, so I became a volunteer. This has given me the opportunity to see first-hand what goes on, and the amazing job MAC and the other volunteers do to make this happen with limited resources. This is not a big-budget operation: I've hauled off the trash, so I know there's no waste.
It takes a lot to rehab wildlife and get them back their lives (which were usually disrupted by humans), and I'm happy to help with various maintenance, cleaning, hauling, and other tasks that support the people doing the actual animal care. It really does "take a village" of volunteers and donors.
I've been privileged to do a few wildlife releases, and it all comes together when you watch a hawk fly off to a place they can call home. And I helped!
Mac and the dedicated people at PAWS are always there when I find a wild animal in need of rehabilitation. They are thoughtful, caring, and experts at what they do. And they are SO compassionate with the animals in their care! They support the needs of our community and offer educational services as well. It's hard to believe we have a gem like this in our small town!
I have taken a Great Heron, baby bunny, and they helped teach me how to care for baby orphaned squirrels. Much more importantly, the dedicated people of PAWS provide education to the community on how to identify if a found animal needs care and should be removed from a situation or if the animal should be left where it was found. I think helping animals is a huge worthwhile cause, especially our raptors here in SC, but without the educational piece they would fall short. PAWS is a place I would give my money as well as my time to.
I have been volunteering for 5 years. This is the best place for these animals for care.
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I found an injured baby beaver on my backyard patio. I called PAWS and talked with Bonnie Brown. She came over to my house with a big dog crate and rescued the beaver to take back to PAWS to get it help. She was wonderful and I really appreciate all the hard work she did. Thank you to this great organization for helping wildlife!
PAWS is such blessing to our wildlife. After nearly 10 years of volunteering I am still learning so much about wildlife do’s and don’ts. Mac and her on site volunteers continue to work tirelessly daily to give the non releasable a safe loving home as natural as possible and to rehab the ones who can be released. They provide wildlife education programs to schools taking licensed educational wildlife for the students and staff to see how magnificent wildlife is while educating them on how to respect their wild nature. They pay for the all the licensing and and everything they provide with no financial assistance from state or federal funding. They depend on private donations and it ALL goes into the sanctuary for the wildlife. I had no idea what went into rehabbing until I started volunteering. I am proud to be a volunteer and a donor!
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I have been a volunteer for just over a year. I have learned so much from Paws. Animal lovers want to do what they can to help but most of us are doing some things we shouldn't. Mac teaches us and the public how we can help and how everyone can help out in the public. I can't say enough about Paws, Mac and all the volunteers who help out! It was so eye opening to see first hand Mac saving a fawn. Mac and the volunteers work tirelessly to provide for the wildlife and sometimes domestic animals who are fortunate to come through the doors at Paws! I had no idea how much work goes into running the sanctuary. The wildlife are the priority but there is so much more behind the scenes that need to be done! ALL THIS WITH NO FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE! Paws relies on private donations and will stretch every penny! A blessing right here in SC!
I have been a volunteer at PAWS since December 2020 and it has definitely changed my life! Before volunteering, I was in a rough spot mentally and did not have much of a purpose for what to do in life, and where to start. I knew I had always wanted to be involved with animals (specifically wildlife) as I grew up but never found the right place, until PAWS. I had a very traumatic childhood and teen years, and going into my adult years I wanted to make a change before it was too late. Not only did starting at PAWS help me feel I was making an impact by taking care of the wildlife, but it also gave me some inner peace and healing of my own. There is something special about helping and caring for an animal in a vulnerable position, knowing exactly how it feels to be vulnerable, but treating them with respect and kindness rather than feeling they are threatened or overpowered. I feel very much at home when I am at PAWS. And there are so many good things I could list about our founder, Mac Curry, but I will keep it short. Mac takes in all kinds of wildlife, from the easiest to recover to the worst conditions that we expect not to survive. She does not give up on these animals, and that is one thing that has always struck out to me. When I first met her I knew I had found my mentor and someone who is compassionate for what PAWS stands for. Her kindness and compassion towards caring for the wildlife also translates into her volunteer's well-being. She has always been eager and willing to share and teach her volunteers on how to care for these animals. Her communication with the wildlife gives them a sense of security knowing they're safe in PAWS care. There is such a rewarding feeling when you see the process of recovery for these animals and their release back into the wild. And there is so much I could express about PAWS and all the good things we do there! I do not know what I would do without PAWS, Mac and all the dedicated volunteers, they are family to me now!
Such a wonderful sanctuary! The staff are so dedicated to helping and saving wildlife, you can tell they truly love their work and the animals they breath life into. I’ve brought several different wildlife to PAWS and always love hearing and seeing the progress of care the animals receive. Mac is one-of-a-kind, she makes the world a much better place.
PAWS is one of the greatest sanctuaries I’ve ever had the privilege to volunteer at. ALL of the animals are so well taken care of by the fabulous animal whisperer Mac. She is kind and gentle and never waivers to help any wildlife in need. She treats her volunteers with that same kindness. I wish I had more time to spend at PAWS, and one of these days I will.
PAWS is such an amazing organization. The heart they have for animals is like nothing I have ever seen. I’m so thankful to know them and to have learned so much from them.
Wonderful people. Found an injured crow they sent a Transporter to pick it up. Texted me all day and kept me updated concerning its health. I couldn’t be more pleased with them. Truly
Wonderful caring people. Mac is awesome as
Well as his volunteers.
I really cannot express enough how PAWS is so valuable, not only to me but our community, county, even our state. The care, the love that goes into helping our injured wildlife is beyond measure. I first came to know PAWS through a now non releasable deer, Franklin. I donated meat and other items after Franklin came to my home, our contacting PAWS, getting him to a safe place and the realization that we had a wildlife sanctuary nearby. A wildlife sanctuary that takes care of the animals/raptors that come in and does their absolute best to give them a chance at a life they were meant to have. After my husband of 28 years passed away in Nov 2021, I was floundering, trying to find my place in life. Out of the blue, I got a call from Mac needing a simple product to help some skunks out, to help them survive. She was out, had no way and no one to go get what she needed. I had what she needed, promptly taking it to her. Mac knew of my situation, knew how my husband and I loved Franklin and urged me to come volunteer. Something to help me during MY time of need. I started volunteering 8 months to the day of my husband's burial and on my birthday 2022...the best birthday gift I could have given myself! I simply cannot express just how much being at PAWS has helped me! I look forward to and love being there! It truly is a sanctuary, even for me! I have come to know and love our non-releasable animals/raptors and have learned so much about our rehabs and how to care for them. I learn something new every day that I'm there, from the simplest of things to the major things. I cannot see my life without PAWS!
Paws is a true light in a dark world. They are always going above and beyond to help the animals.
They are deeply knowledgeable about the animals they help, and offer detailed reports when delivering information to the public.
The Paws Director also makes sure that the public gets as educated as possible on to do and what not to do when they come across animals in need.
This is a non-profit that is doing great work, indeed.
I can’t say enough good about this organization. We found an injured hawk in our front yard, who was in pretty bad shape. PAWS took him in and successfully rehabilitated him. After several weeks of care, he was able to be released in our front yard where he was found. I am so amazed at the care and compassion they put into every single animal.
I recently was contacted about an injured possum. I reached out to PAWS Animal Wildlife Sanctuary and they were waiting for my arrival for intake of this poor little soul. It appeared that the possum had been attacked by a dog and was in critical condition upon arrival. He was immediately placed in the incubator where he could be warmed up. Unfortunately, he had succumbed to his injuries a few hours later, however he was safe and warm when he crossed the rainbow bridge. The folks at PAWS provided updates to me and were compassionate about the sweet young possum. I recommend PAWS whenever I see people posting they need assistance with wildlife, this organization is 100% dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of wildlife back to the wild.
PAWS Wildlife is a great organization. I have volunteered along side Mac for over 20 years. PAWS gives the animals a place to be healed, relax while healing and they are released back into the wild. Mac goes above and beyond to make sure all animals are taken care of. The volunteers are a wonderful group. The volunteers help run everything smoothly.
PAWS Animal Wildlife Sanctuary is just an incredible organization. The lengths they go to to help the wildlife community of Lauren’s County and all surrounding areas is incredible! From the smallest creature to the largest, from a displaced home to an raptor seriously injuried by another animal, a car or sadly by human hands PAWS will do whatever it takes to comfort, heal and release these precious babies. Their doors are never closed and Mac will answer the call 24/7 I have learned so much from this organization and it’s leader. Education is one of the most important aspects of just one of the many things they do. Without education there would be so much more loss of our states wildlife and I, myself can’t image life without wildlife! Mac and PAWS deserves 100 stars but you’ll only let me give them 5!!!
Mac and her team at PAWS do amazing work! I have never seen someone have a way with animals like she does - even the most injured and scared wildlife feel safe when in her care. SC is so lucky to have this rescue (and resource!)
I am a professor at a university, and I serve as advisor to my student group, Animal Advocates. Recently, these wonderful students have secured a partnership with PAWS. They have service days on the weekends where they travel to the sanctuary and help with any cleaning, painting or laundry that needs to be done. The owners have been so welcoming and supportive of our students. They also bring their animals to the campus for educational purposes. We were able to take pictures with and pet a duck, (JJ!) and today they bought a vulture, owls and a hawk to the Birds of Prey event that my students helped organize. It was such a success and I know we all learned so much about these incredible and magnificent creatures. The students are also planning on a donation drive to get supplies such as cleaning items to the sanctuary. We have had nothing but great positive experiences working with PAWS and hope to keep this relationship going for the years to come. I am so touched and impressed by the selfless work they do to take care of all precious creatures.
PAWS has taught me so many new ways to help the wonderful animals around me! I love being to donate items to help them raise funds to help unfortunate creatures that are effected by the changes in their environment and what to do when I come across them.
Someone close to me believes in this place, so by extension I do too. Keep up the great work, not many groups do this purely for others.
I’ve attended community events in our area where PAWS Animal Wildlife nonprofit has also been at and I’ve learned a lot about wildlife. After I’ve seen their organization once, I’ve been a donor and still continue to support them. Professional, knowledgeable, caring and they make a huge difference.
When we found a little baby vulture that was still fluffy and could barely stand we hand no idea what to do. We called PAWS and they reacted quickly. They explained to us how to keep the baby save and how to look for it’s best and it’s parents. Once we determined there was no nest near by they immediately were ready for us to bring it to them. He was just a week old little baby who should still be with his mom. PAWS took him and got him set up with fluids and food and all the care he needs.
I knew about Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary in Laurens, SC from an outreach program they did at our high school a while back. I saw an injured possum in the road the other day and knew I needed to help. I called them and someone texted me within minutes helping guide me with what to do. I was able to take the possum to their location and left a small donation. Wish I could have done more because it is a great cause! Even if the possum did not have a chance to survive at least they were a resource to offer a humane option for it.
Absolutely love this nonprofit animal sanctuary. Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary greatly cares and saves lives of animals. All proceeds go to good use.
As a volunteer spending whole days at PAWS doing the fun stuff like eagle bedding laundry, I have seen first hand how totally consuming an effort like PAWS' wildlife rehab can be. Yet Mac's leadership has not only built one of the key facilities in the state and helped thousands of animals, she has provided educational opportunities for the volunteers and the public and built an organization that has had a beneficial ripple effect. I and others have not been able to help since Covid, yet she has continued to grow and to serve the community. I am a wildlife biologist and previous rehabber so can attest to the quality of care she provides the animals. I have been honored to host a spinoff from PAWS where my niece cares for songbirds, one of many examples of PAWS' spreading knowledge of and reverence for the wild creatures.
I’ve know Mac and PAWS for close to 10 years. My daughters when Girl Scouts built PAWS a raptor flight pen for their Gold Award project. I’ve rehabbed squirrels and possums for PAWS and used our farm for a release area. What Mac and PAWS accomplish is truly amazing!
WOW! There is no way I can say enough positive words for the wonderful work PAWS does for Native Wildlife and Our Community. Thank you so much for your commitment to the care of the animals in needs!
I have volunteered for Paws Wildlife over the last year with what started out once a week and now twice or more a week. I’m totally invested with the work this organization does. Mac pours her heart and soul into each precious injured or orphaned soul coming through the doors. She speaks their own language and its magical to witness.
Excellent wildlife rescue! They also fill a very specific hole in the community. No other local rescue has a raptor license.
It was several years ago when I found an injured owl at a friend's house and decided to get the little guy some help. I snuggled him down into a spare cooler and drove him home. His wing was hurt (likely had been hit by a car) and was a sweet little bird. I kept him in my bathroom overnight and started calling the next day to rescues all over the area.
PAWS was the only one who could help the little fellow! My father and I drove him there after setting an appointment with the nice people, and we dropped him off with a donation in gratitude for their help with the tiny (apparently full-grown) owl.
10/10 would send injured owl to PAWS again.
I found a duck yesterday that got hit by a car. I called and they were able to take him/her. We got the duck in the car and took him to this rescue. Hoping he’s ok
Just remarkable work, every day. I don't know how they do it. And I've learned a great deal from them. I run a small cat sanctuary of feral and semi-feral cats, indoors/outdoors. We also have some visiting raccoons, possums, and armadilloes, as well as bald eagles, hawks, and owls and other wildlife here. The insights I've gotten from Paws is invaluable to my work. (A few cat photos.)
I have been feeding organic duck crumble to a couple of domestic ducks someone dropped off at a local lake since the cold weather started. The other day, I noticed one of them was limping. Upon closer observation, I noticed fishing wire wrapped around the ducks thigh and possibly a piece of a hook protruding from the underside of the web of its foot. I called the 2 rescue groups in the area recommended by 2 different veterinarians, left messages with both, and neither one of them ever got back to me. Then I posted on Facebook, and my cousin in Arizona told me to look on the South Carolina Dept. of Natural Resources. There, I found Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary, which is about an hour and 10 minutes away from me. I called them and left a message, but unlike the other groups, they called me back within the hour. The lady on the phone was so nice and said she would call me back after she checked to see if they had someone available in my area to help with the capture and transport of the duck. Unfortunately, no one was available, but she gave me a number of suggestions as to how to catch the duck myself and use my cat carrier to transport him. I had been feeding them right at the edge of the water line so the water could soak into the dry crumble, but this gave the duck the opportunity to scoot off into the water when I tried to pick him up, so...I put the crumble about 10 feet from the water so he would have to get out and I could get behind him. It worked!! While he was busily eating, I just calmly bent down and picked him up and put him in the cat carrier; he did not struggle at all. Meanwhile, Paws was coordinating with me via text messages to make sure I was finding the place. I got lost for a little while, but they calmly helped me get oriented and gave me very clear instructions as to how to get there. The driveway up to the building in the woods was long and muddy with some pretty deep potholes, so I fishtailed a little, but ended up safely in front of the building. Now that I know how wonderful these people are, I found myself wishing I could build them a concrete driveway and a beautiful road sign because they deserve a grand entryway for the work they perform. They took my precious friend the duck into their facility and took great care of him, removing the hook and setting him up for recovery and adoption after he is healed. They recommended not returning him to the same lake as it is a fishing lake with lots of discarded fishing line and hooks all around. I then asked about the other healthy duck, his buddy and partner. They told me I could capture and bring that one down to Paws as well and they would either send them to a sanctuary or adopt them out, depending on if this other duck was male or female. Turns out the other one is a male also, so they are now happily awaiting healing and adoption in the loving care of the Paws staff. All I can say is thank you, Paws, and God bless you all!
I just want everyone to know that this organization is the epitome of a caring, compassionate no-animal-left-behind sanctuary in the true sense of the word. Please consider donating to them....they do SO much in rehabilitation and teaching us all to respect and appreciate wildlife. ...!...
There are many wonderful rescues and sanctuaries in the US, but, I have to say, after following your page for about a year, not only does your sanctuary have incredible passion, the commitment, care, and unparalleled desire to save every single animal that comes in your door, is second to none. Even when heartache hits, it shows in your posts. Pretty sure that each of the staff members has taken home many sad tears along the way, while releasing lots of happy tears when an animal makes it out OK. Wisconsin sends a huge hug to you and the animals in your care.
Paws has always answered the call for animals in need. They are the most dedicated team and take special care to ensure the animals receive the best care and treatment so they are able to return to their wild life once they are are ready. They also provide educational programs to help people better live in harmony with wildlife and to educate younger people the importance of protecting them and the environment they need to survive.
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This organization is run by a very dedicated woman who puts all her love and energy into saving wild animals. Her endless dedication and hard work has saved many lives and she is making great progress in teaching others, expanding her facilities and works with other great organizations who all work hard to help an assortment of wildlife and farm animals. I've personally been involved in some of the projects and try to help where I can but live about 2 hours away. I know how hard these people work so if i can help if only a few days a year I hope it helps them. When you donate to them i can assure you the money is going to help the animals and not anywhere else.
PAWS has helped me with an orphaned squirrel on two occasions and has helped with a injured wild bird on another. I have learned so much from their educational materials put out around our rural county to help people know that many things we have heard about wildlife are not true. We now know that tiny fawn should be left alone as his mother will likely be back, to put the baby bunnies back and their mother will come back, too and the benefits of so many wild creatures. I am very grateful for PAWS!
It is an amazing organization! Staff is knowledgeable and passionate about what they do. You can tell they really care and love all animals. They are also a great resource for information and rescues -working to educate the public about wildlife and how to help and improve the chances for rehabilitation.
Just a couple of months ago my neighbor cut some branches and bushes and I found 3 baby squirrels on the ground. Normally I would panic but thanks to Paws I knew to put them in a box and leave for the squirrel mom to come back for them. Luckily she came and got the babies so everything ended in the best way. But I also knew I can call Paws any time and they would come to get the babies to save them.
I absolutely love the work they do at Paws and I am proud to be a long-time supporter!
Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary has taught me so much about wildlife - most importantly the beauty in all living things. From opossums to beavers and vultures, the criticality of these creatures to the ecosystem cannot be understated. Paws does an incredible job of telling these animals stories throughout the rehab process. It’s like reading an engaging novel all the time rooting for the underdog. Unfortunately, the villain is often humans, but we have a chance to redeem ourselves in learning about the wildlife.
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PAWS, Inc. is remarkable! It takes a true love for wildlife to perform at the level of excellence the folks at PAWS do every day and constantly strive to exceed. They are a voice for many of God’s creatures that would otherwise go unheard. One can’t help but admire the support of those outside of PAWS that volunteer their time and efforts to build enclosures, make repairs, and do what is need, all inspired by the dedication they see from the PAWS volunteers. It is so inspiring to see an animal they have taken in that is near death, to eventually be released back into their natural environment to live out their lives in freedom, One cannot help but share in their pain when despite their efforts, an animal doesn’t make it. Thanks to PAWS educational programs, many have learned to contact a licensed, experienced wildlife rehabber right away, increasing the animals’ chances of survival. Hats off to PAWS, Inc for their years of dedication and love.
I love PAWS. They have taught me a lot about possums. If it wasn't for them and their education I would have been worried for the baby possums in my yard. Thanks to them I know Mama's let the babies explore and learn early, they just look small but they are ok! I also love all their raptors! They are amazing.
Need help with wildlife? PAWS is there for you. Have a question on how to help the wildlife in your area? PAWS is there for you. Want to learn more and educate yourself about wildlife? PAWS is there for you.
24/7 365 paws does everything they can to help wildlife.
Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary is one of my favorites !! Great place, great volunteers. They truly care for the animals they are rescuing and work tirelessly day and night to provide any care they may need. Thank you Mac and friends !!!
I follow this group on Facebook and so many of their posts have helped me understand tragic wildlife issues and the hard work and heart wrenching stories that they face on a daily basis. One example helped me understand what probably happened to the beavers that lived in my creek but who mysteriously disappeared. I am so much more aware of the special needs of baby deer and have tried to share with my friends why they should never assume a baby has been abandoned, nor think they can just give it a bottle of milk and feel they’ve been kind. I even learned there is a correct way to help a turtle get across a road. These folks are true hero’s in my eyes. I appreciate them more than I can express. I know EXACTLY who I will call if I find a wild animal in distress. Even better, I know they will help.
Paws in is SC. I am in CO. I support this organization with shopping at Amazon on Wishlist, as a designated recipient on my Amazon's charities with my shopping, and with a monthly donation through Patreon. Why?
Because of all the work and good for all wildlife from small to huge (deer!). They have figured out systems to help deer that would otherwise die from capture myopathy with riggings and medication and food and therapy.
The success rate is off the charts. And even with the huge volume they still help other organizations with the "tough cases.
Their outreach to the community is extensive, helping people learn and appreciate about animals in their community, to understand the benefits they bring, to change the perception of people about the animals that share their living space.
I have never witnessed an organization do so much. It makes me proud to be a supporter.
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I usually support my local organizations, but in this case, I am supporting PAWS in S.C. while I live in CO. why? Because of the hard work and education that is done to help not only the animals in care, but to those that can be helped by educating people about wildlife. I have observed amazing transformations in animals that come into PAWS to be released again and for those that are non-releasable, the amazing purpose they are given to help future animals that come in as surrogate moms and dads.
PAWS is an amazing rescue. They not only help animals in distress, they educate the human population by going to schools, attending events, and sharing information on social media. 5 stars for PAWS and the people behind the scenes! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I follow this nonprofit on Facebook and am so impressed with their work. They help the wild animals and are a wonderful educational program. I have learned so much about different wild animals. Their issues and difficulties when needing rehabilitation. The process of the animals rehabilitation, the importance of seeking someone qualified to help when you find a hurt or abandoned wild animal. Even knowing how to tell when the animal is best left alone.
Every time I've needed them, PAWS has come through with flying colors! I've had them help me with advice to return animals to their moms and I've taken animals to them for rehabilitation. They have never failed me or the animals that have needed them. Not every case can have a happy ending, but these guys always do their very best! I can't recommend PAWS enough for anyone with a wild animal in need.
I know from personal experience PAWS is absolutely a very caring and compassionate wildlife rescue organization. They truly think “wild” and are concerned about what is best for the wild ones they rehabilitate. Their Director, Mercedes Curry, is dedicated to getting injured, truly orphaned, and wildlife impacted by humans back to the wild where they can be as free as they were meant to be and fulfill their purposes in Nature’s plan. She is especially amazing in her experienced and gifted ability to rehabilitate those wild ones that are critically compromised physically without compromising their instinctive fears so necessary for survival. Mercedes and her Wildlife Rescue are truly the REAL DEAL!
We love when we get to see a presentation by PAWS at our local library. My little animal lovers have learned so fun and the program is always fun, engaging, and educational! We love following their Facebook page to see what creatures they are protecting and rehabilitating. We know they work tirelessly each day and are grateful!
Paws is an awesome rescue group. They are very professional and provide exceptional care to each and every animal. Paws volunteers are like family to each other. I have seen first hand the amazing things Mac has been able to save animals.
I have volunteered with this organization for a couple of years now. They go above and beyond for the animals in their care and always do what is best for the animals. Mac is an extremely gifted and caring person and I have learned so much from her. In my opinion, PAWS is the best wildlife rehabilitation facility in the state of SC.
The education PAWS provides on raptors and other wild animals that many people don't get to see up-close is invaluable. I will never look at vultures the same way again. The rehab and release work they do is amazing. So thankful for them.
This organization is a great resource for information and rescues. I love how they bring some of the animals they have rescued out for people to "meet". The owls they have rescued are beautiful!
Until PAWS Animal Wildlife Sanctuary posted about all the beaver babies coming in, I had no idea that people were just wantonly killing beavers. They have created the Beaver Initiative to help educate the general public, as well as property owners about alternative ways to handle what some believe are the nuisance aspects of beaver behavior.
PAWS is as great about educating people as it is at rehabilitating wildlife. Often direct contact is the best way to education people, but COVID-19 has hampered this interaction. JayJay, the PAWS ambassador duck, has really missed his educational outings.
Their network of volunteers is on top of calls for getting animals who need help picked up and back to PAWS for help. There additional PAWS volunteers work tirelessly getting these animals back on their feet/paws for release back to their home environment.
This is a wonderful organization from which I am constantly learning.
I love following Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary on Facebook. I learn so much from them about what to do to help wildlife and when to not “help” them. The care they provide is amazing. Because of them I am looking in to getting my license when I retire and helping the animals out!!
My grandkids found what I thought was a chipmunk in the creek behind my house years ago. No mom in sight and it was screaming! I called Paws for help. They immediately let me bring him to their Sanctuary. It turned out he was actually a VERY hungry baby raccoon! I had no clue how to take care of him or even what it was! I thank God to this day for them being there to help! That little guy would have died a miserable death without them! VERY courteous, intelligent and caring staff!
One day at the age of 62, after more than 40 years of doing office work, I found that due to a rapidly growing cognitive problem caused by a brain tumor that at the time I was unaware of, I could no longer work. This was not my plan. I was suddenly a fish out of water and of no particular value to anyone. That’s when I was accepted as a volunteer at PAWS. Mac took me into the fold and has since been a light shining into my darkest hour. I suddenly had value. She gave me a reason to go on. So without knowing what I was getting into, PAWS rescued me. I am currently not able to help as much as I would like but soon….
What can I tell you about PAWS? I’m not even sure where to start but I can tell you one thing, without Mac, the world would be missing its finest real-life superhero. I have never met such a kind and deeply loving human being. Her heart belongs to the wildlife at PAWS. She has a special gift with injured and orphaned wild animals of all species and they instinctively trust her to help them. I have heard about people like Mac but in my entire life, I have yet to meet another like her. She cares more for the animals than for her own sleep, hunger or thirst. She truly puts them above all else.
The volunteers I have met at PAWS are also among the kindest people I have ever met. They are each dedicated to their individual specialties and they each put the animals’ needs above their own. The upstate of South Carolina’s best have somehow made their way to PAWS to join the team.
If there was a review that I could write and give PAWS Animal Wildlife Sanctuary a thousand stars, that still just wouldn’t be enough. But for now, five stars will have to do.
My husband and I found a hawk that had been shot and we took it to Paws and unfortunately the hawk was too far gone to be saved but paws still took him in and I'm sure they did everything they could. My cousin and i also took a baby deer whose mom had been hit by a car to Paws and they raised it and then released it when the time was right. This is a great organization! Its so amazing that they take in animals and rehabilitate them and just care for them!
I love Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary Inc. Their commitment to helping wildlife is a million percent. They are simply the best. I have learned so much from them about to do and what not to do with wildlife. For instance, i did not know if you see a dead oppossum by the side of the road that there might be babies in the pouch. I have learned about the value of vultures and how they help the environment. I didn't know that pumpkins are a food source for deer and now I donate mine. I just love that they help so many different kinds of species and educate the public about their importance and value to all of us.
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I have donated to paws before and only WISH that I had the resources to send money regularly. Why do I feel this way? Because of the heart and soul that is poured in to this organization for the welfare of wildlife. If more of the human species felt as connected and caring to wildlife as this organization does...well then we probably wouldn't need them, or rather the wildlife wouldn't. But until that day comes, the role PAWS plays is essential to the healing of wildlife and to the soul of humanity through education. Thank you PAWS for all you do!!!!!
Our sons cat brought a baby squirrel up on our porch to us. I immediately searched for wildlife rehab in Laurens Co & found PAWS. They accepted him, the squirrel. They were very nice & even called while I was on the way to make sure I hadn't got lost. Wonderful people!!!!
PAWS Animal Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most respected non-profit rescues in the state, and for good reason. The owner truly takes the time to consider every single animal’s situation, trauma, and backstory in their treatment, rehab, and release. I’ve never seen such a high volume rescue pay this amount of detail and care to every one of their intakes. Despite always being full, they never turn down an at-risk animal. They are also a great educational resource - I know that I can ask any wildlife based question and get a thought out, well researched answer. If I were an injured animal and I had a choice - I’d choose PAWS for my rehab and care every. Single. Time. I can’t say enough good things about the truly amazing souls that run this incredible organization.
I've know Mac and PAWS for many years. My Girl Scouts volunteered with PAWS and I still help with releases when needed. Mac's love and dedication to these animals is amazing. No one works harder then Mac and PAWS volunteers. It is an outstanding dedicated group!
This wonderful rescue takes in all manner of wildlife and always takes the time to share their individual stories. It’s so important for people to feel personal connections to these creatures. The follow up posts and chronology of events and challenges really teaches the audience about these creatures and how to be a more respectful human. Keep up the great work!
I'm so impressed with Mac and her crew. They do so much with so little. I so wish I lived closer so I could volunteer my time to help. From the littlest animal to big, they are always 100% about helping them to get rehabbed and back to nature. They do so much to educate the public. Thank you for all you guys do Paws!
This is a wildlife rehabilitation facility whose founder works consistently to achieve optimum recovery for animals in her care. It means long hours devoted to those who die despite intensive care, and those who survive because of it...requires continuing, comprehensive education and consistent contact with a wide spectrum of peers in this career. In turn, she keeps the public informed—with photos and detailed explanations—of her invaluable work. Success is marked by healthy animals returned to their habitats, well prepared for life without human intervention. Funded by donations, aided by volunteers, there is no more worthy endeavor at a time when wildlife struggles to adapt to human encroachment. High praise for Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary!
I've been to the sanctuary and it is amazing. All the selfless hours volunteers work with no pay, and i mean hard work, is priceless. They truly care about the wildlife and their goal is to be able to release them back to nature. I only wish I lived closer so I could volunteer, I love ALL animals.
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I have spoken with the leader of this organization several times. She always remembers me and helps me in any way she can. She is very knowledgeable about the animals and helps me to understand my question. I have learned to love many animals I thought were just nuisances. She also can recommend a person to come to my home if there is a necessity for that.
PAWS is an invaluable resource to our community. They have helped several different animals that I have rescued with various injuries or needs. Staff is knowledgeable & passionate about what they do. You can tell they really care. They also do a great job educating the public through different events with animals when possible & also social media.
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I'm so glad to have an organization in my community with such compassionate people. I have called on PAWS several times & they are knowledgeable & helpful. Once they met me at my job to take a baby bat & once I met one of their workers at her church to take a badly injured terrapin. They really care & do so much to increase awareness about how to help wildlife, when not to help & the natural benefits of different animals. I love critters & I love PAWS.
Mac & her team with P.A.W.S is an amazing place to take wildlife. I have taken 2 domestic ducks I have found at a public pond that was injured to them and they did everything to help them. Amazing people!!!
This is an amazing rescue with compassionate people who not only rescue animals, but educate the public as well.
I've been following Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary Inc for awhile now. I love seeing these people give their all to help our wildlife. Some of the animals they take in make it and some don't. I know it's a bitter sweet job for sure! Doing what you do is much appreciated! So to all you many hugs and praises for your kindness and compassion and a heartfelt thankyou!
Compassionate, caring, knowledgeable, no nonsense care taker for all creatures and critters. We gladly support Paws and all she does for the animals in the Upstate.
I love Mac! Without her a baby possum would have died, she was her voice when no one else listened. Amazing lady and I am highly honored to know her!

paws.sc 12/14/2017
And I thank you for alerting us to that situation so we could get something done to help. It takes us all networking together to make things happen. So thank YOU for being part of that! :-)

paws.sc 12/14/2017
And I thank you for alerting us to that situation so we could get something done to help. It takes us all networking together to make things happen. So thank YOU for being part of that! :-)

paws.sc 12/14/2017
And I thank you for alerting us to that situation so we could get something done to help. It takes us all networking together to make things happen. So thank YOU for being part of that! :-)

paws.sc 12/14/2017
And I thank you for alerting us to that situation so we could get something done to help. It takes us all networking together to make things happen. So thank YOU for being part of that! :-)
I found the website by accident, but have followed it ever since. The dedication and caring shown by Mac is just amazing. She tries so hard with every creature that comes into her care. She is truly inspirational.

paws.sc 12/14/2017
Your words are heart warming and we REALLY appreciate you taking the time to leave us such an awesome review! :-) I think the one star rating might have been a mistake since your words are SO supportive!
PAWS does amazing work saving animals, AND they also do a fantastic job of educating the public about wildlife. I had Mac out several times to present to a group of after-school kids and she was always a massive hit! Thank you for everything you do for those who can't speak for themselves.

paws.sc 12/14/2017
Thank you SO much for your kind words. Let us know when you want us to come back out and speak to your kids again! :-)
The devotion that PAWS shows toward the maimed, sick, lost and orphaned wildlife in SC is beyond measure. Mac Mercedes appears to work tirelessly toward saving the wildlife and educating the public. Wish I could give them 10 stars!
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Being an advocate for all animals, I follow Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary on Facebook and so look forward to Mac Mercedes' daily postings on what's new at the sanctuary. Sometimes the news is happy, sometimes sad. But knowing that this wonderful rehabber and group of volunteers is there doing their best to save and rehabilitate these creatures is comforting. Not long ago, my dog found a baby racoon in the yard. It was a weekend and I tried connecting with rehabbers in my area, to no avail. I finally reached out to Mac at Paws for advice. Not only did she guide me, but in the end, because I was so desperate, she arranged for a transport for me to connect with to bring the racoon to her. There is no animal rescue group in South Carolina who is more dedicated and deserving of respect than Mac Mercedes, Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary and volunteers.
I have been following PAWS for a couple years now. I started when I was still a rehabber for the state of VA to learn how other rehabbers did things. Even though I'm not a rehabber anymore I still follow them to learn as well as to have a reminder of the good people in this world that work really hard to save the animals. Thank you PAWS!
The dedication and 24/7 work of this amazing group of people, and all of their volunteers, is far-reaching as they work endlessly to save as many sick or wounded wildlife animals as possible. These animals include all types of mammals, birds and reptiles. The information shared on Facebook educates readers to the many ways Paws work with these animals to save them and how the public can help and support them in their endeavors.
I recently had a hummingbird trying to feed from my feeders but always flew back to the ground where he was attacked by other birds. When I walked toward him, he would flitter about 20 feet away, just far away and fast enough that I could not catch him. I contacted PAWS and was told how to safely catch him. Something was very obviously wrong with this hummingbird and by the next morning, I was able to catch him using the technique I was told. I fixed a box and feeder for him, but had to feed him by eye dropper until I could get him to PAWS. The volunteer from PAWS accepted this little bird for possible rehab and release. I was so relieved to find someone who knew way more than I did about helping hummingbirds. Keep up the good work PAWS! I am glad there are people like you who are doing this work.
I live in New York. We do not have a rescue like this one here. Paws is wonderful. They help ALL animals. The way they love and care for the sick and injured is truly amazing to me. Such a tremendous credit to their profession! Keep on Rockin' Paws!!!
I have been following Paws for quite some time.Mac and her volunteers have always impressed me with their Knowledge and the way they treat our wildlife.They spend long hours helping injured orphaned and displaced wildlife.They spend sleepless nights on an animal that needs close observation,and will drive hours to get the animal the help it needs.Thank you Mac and all your volunteers for all the hard work and hours you put in to help our wildlife.
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I have know Mac with Paws for quite sometime now,what a wonderful compassionate lady she is.I love how she is so dedicated to her work with wildlife.I wish I was closer to her,would love to volunteer with her.

paws.sc 01/09/2014
Wish you were closer also! :-)
I have been a supporter, contributor, and fan of Paws for several years now. I am so impressed with the good they do. I have learned a lot from Paws...from "rescuing" baby squirrels whose nest fell from a tree (Mama Squirrel will usually come get them) to rescuing an "abandoned" fawn (it's probably not abandoned). Mac has posted a number of times on FaceBook about the commitment needed to raise those little ducklings, chicks, and bunnies bought like "toys" at Easter. She has also explained what happens to them when they outgrow their "cuteness" and are "discarded" to "survive" on their own and it's not pretty. I share her posts with others to help get the information out there. I root for all of the creatures that are taken to Paws and are helped and those that, sadly, don't make it. I admire the knowledge, work, and dedication put in by Mac and her small group of volunteers. If you are looking for a group to support, this is a good one.
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This is one of two wildlife organizations I donate to. The care for the animals is excellent; the funds are used in an appropriate manner; and I love the way the organization does it's best to make sure the wildlife are rehabbed to go back into the wild. I would donate more to them if I had it! Excellent management, excellent facility. I am forever glad I found them.
I found Paws on Facebook, and have been following and sharing ever since. I have referred a number of people to them that have found injured wildlife that needed help. It's nice to have someone to turn to.
This is an awesome group, always willing to help save wildlife. This group lives for the animals. Job well done!!
I follow Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary on Facebook and love them. I have learned a lot from their post about what and what not to do. I always try to share their informational post so that it can reach others and teach them. When we found a baby squirrel last year I contacted them on what to do. After we tried to get the mother to take it back it didn't work so I had to take it to Paws.
I live in Colorado but I support Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary because of the work they do to help educate people about wildlife and the amazing care they provide. I donate money and even sewed an outdoor cover for one of the non-releasable ducks this year.
I live in a rural area of upstate SC. Always have lived in the country and love all animals wild and tame. Since I started following PAwS I have learned so much. Things I might have done in the past for love of animals may not have always been in the best interest of the animal. Now I am sharing that knowledge with others who find injured wildlife. I will always reach out to PAWS now for assistance and guidance. I am so grateful for this group of dedicated, knowlegable and caring people who dedicate so much energy in saving the wild life and showing compassion when life is not viable!
One night I fished a bat out of the pool. I thought it would die, but when it was still alive an hour later, I found Paws. They told me what to do with the bat and at 10:00 in the evening a nice woman drove to my house to pick up the bat and take him to a facility that could help bats. I was impressed with the caring women who helped this poor little guy.
Sadly, the little guy didn't make it, but they were great about keeping me posted.
Also, their site had information on what to do if you find a bat. That information literally saved the life of another bat who fell in our pool. I now enjoy reading about their sanctuaries.
I am a middle school teacher. My students donate pumpkins to Paul's every year after Halloween. We have learned a lot thing about wildlife and about keeping and conserving animals! PAWS is a wonderful nonprofit agency! They educate hundreds of schoolchildren every year, and addition to saving the lives of wildlife in our area.
They use social media in a very positive manner to educate the public about what to do in the case of a wildlife emergency! Mac and her crew of volunteers work tirelessly in our area!
We LOVE PAWS!!
A very imporatant non-profit that is licated in South Carolina. The process that the Director goes through in order to heal, rehabilitate and hopefully re-release the animals is very diligent. She goes to great lengths to do what is best for the animal while balancing the restraints of a budget. She understands the need to outsource if she lacks expertise in an area. The organization attempts to handle resources efficiently utilizing social media to successfully communicate needs.
PAWS came to the rescue to help our little Great Horned owlet when efforts to renest him failed. They were excellent at answering our questions and have gone above and beyond to ensure his safety. See more on his page: https://m.facebook.com/TheLittleOwlet/timeline
Thank you PAWS!
Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary Inc helped me tremendously this past July while my family and I were vacationing in Myrtle Beach for a week, and I've been wanting to thank them ever since! I had found a baby songbird on the pavement outside of our condo, and was told to just let it be. I didn't have it in me to do so, and Paws' number popped up on my google search. Come to find out, I was located nowhere near them after I called, but a very very kind lady took the time to help me anyways (Late in the evening at at home from her couch might I add). Thanks to her advice, assistance, and kind heart, it lived AND continued to thrive throughout the rest of our week there! In a few short days, it grew from a helpless nestling to a fledgling in its make-shift Wal Mart Nest;) I'll never forget how awesome it felt to finally see baby and momma reunite, thanks to Paws! They're amazing, Ilearned so much and I will never forget my experience with them!
Below are photos in order of The First night and Last Night we were there. Look how much she grew!
-Katie Miller
I have the privilege and blessing of volunteering for PAWS ! Mac has taught me a lot about the right way to help God's wonderful wild creatures and I am looking forward to learning everything I can from her in the future. She is so compassionate and caring!
Selfless devotion to helping those who can't help themselves. Every dollar goes to help the animals!! I never hesitate to help whenever I can.
I have been a volunteer at Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary, Inc. for more than three years. in that time I have witnessed the care and concern about each and every animal. The care and concern is exceptional in helping these special creatures. Nothing is too much to help an animal rehab and get closer to the day of release. I feel honored and privileged to volunteer for an exceptional organization.
Several years ago I wanted to get into animal rehab. I went and visited a dog rehab first and it was awful. Then I contacted PAWS. I decided to go out and volunteer to clean cages. On my way there I found two kittens on the side of the road. They were in really bad shape health wise. Both were covered in maggot eggs. When I got to PAWS Mac came out and helped me with the kittens even though they were not allowed around the other animals due to possible diseases. I raised those two kittens and gave one away and still have the other one.
Since then I have taken the squirrel rehab class and have rehabbed and released several litters of squirrels. Mac is such an inspiration to me. She has a heart like no other for animals and will do whatever it takes to help them. I love PAWS and its volunteers.
The goal for the organization is to release wild life back out into the wild and to educate people on how mankind effects wildlife. I have not personally volunteered at her facility however I have been there and seen the work that is being done there. The animals are greatly loved and cared for.
I am continually impressed with the level of care & commitment this organization gives to the animals in its care. The knowledge they possess about the many different species they care for is impressive. Thank you for all you do!
I stumbled upon this group at a home and garden show in Greenville. I joined the group immediately because I am constantly finding little animals in need and NOT knowing how to help them. They offered to help me by providing free classes and lots of different resources to refer to if I needed information or supplies. The most important thing is that they never say "no". They will help the public with any question and if there is an animal in need they WILL take it or tell you where to go to get the help you need! I have been able to save numerous animals! Its been such a blessing to be able to properly rehabilate and release possums, squirrels, flying squirrels, etc. They reach out to the public, inform and provide classes to those that are interested, and they don't turn away animals! Could not be happier with them. So glad we have this group in our area!
I absolutely love the work done by Paws. I am a monthly donor and would gladly give more if I could. The care they give to wildlife is outstanding. The educational information offered is great too. It is difficult to know what to do when faced with hurt or abandoned wildlife. Mac, the rehabber at Paws has provided lots of information on determining if an animal has been abandoned or not and what to do if one is hurt. Recently, I had the opportunity to put some of that educational information to use. We were in Leesville, SC, when a tree fell in the woods behind our house. I heard the tree fall and went to investigate. There were three baby squirrels in the remains of the nest on the ground. Thankfully, they did not appear to be hurt. I called and got instructions on how to reunite the babies with the mama but after 4 hours she had not returned. I then took them to Carolina Wildlife Care in Columbia. Because of the information offered by Paws, I knew not to feed them and where to get instructions for a attempt to reunite them with their Mom. Thanks to Paws, I knew what to do and these babies will have a good chance of growing up!
Paws is one of the best Wildlife educators out there. Tremendous care is always given to each individual animal needing rescue and rehabilitation. Tireless to teach the youth by giving wonderful outreach in the public and private schools, their education helps the next generation to respect and care for our wildlife. Many lil frail animal lives have been saved by their careful hands.
The team there has a true heart for the animals brought to them. They have helped numerous animals and I am so grateful for their services to our feathered, furry, and scaley creatures.
Having volunteered for several years, at another wildlife facility, I easily recognize the superior skills demonstrated through what happens at Paws Animal Wildlife Sanctuary. Taking time to keep the public informed (for me, through facebook posts), the "Paws" facility has described care regimens and issued enough animal progress reports to yield evidence of consistent and conscientious care. Further posts by this facility focus on awareness education valuable to the general public, who are most often the first people to come across wild animals in distress and need the information so that wildlife caregivers might achieve best outcome for sick, orphaned, and/or displaced wildlife, and to prevent unnecessary admissions of animals. Wildlife rehabilitation is time-consuming, with few breaks and long hours. It's grueling work and deeply rewarding, and it encompasses amazing rehabilitation victories at the same time as it delivers heartbreaking experiences. As soon as she finds the time, the director of the "Paws" facility writes summaries for her new admissions and disseminates them to the public, with follow-up reports and relevant education items--all essential, if we are to learn and realize how significant is the work of keeping our wildlife healthy. For several years I have been an avid reader of all that has been posted, and I highly commend the folks at Paws Wildlife Animal Sanctuary. They perform a needed service during an era when wildlife is rapidly vanishing and needs all skills available to meet their needs during compromise.
As a rehabber, I have occasionally needed advice on different species that I'm not familiar with. Mac & the good people at PAWS are always available.
They are always willing to take animals that I don't handle.
The time and care they put into their sanctuary is awesome. Even with the number of animals in their care, they manage to provide specialized treatment for all.
I am amazed that they do it all on donations and their own out of pocket. I would definitely recommend this group if you ever find orphaned/injured wildlife. You won't find a more dedicated group.
I do not know how PAWS manages to do all that they do. Every penny donated goes directly to the care of the wildlife they take in. The operators and management work tirelessly, often around the clock to provide needed medical assistance. Volunteers are treated with respect and know that they are valued and all donations whether in kind or monetary are put to use. The owner/operator posts regular updates on the animals which allows those of us living far away to track the progress of these beautiful creatures both great and small.
I have never needed PAWS assistance, but I appreciate the work they do. I live within 30 miles of their physical location. Sadly, in this area, wildlife is considered expendable. I love that they take in, mend, and release wildlife; or permanently house the animals that are non- releasable. All lives are precious, despite the species!
I have never needed PAWS services as they are far from me but I have been following them on Facebook and have donated money here and there over the past few years because of the amazing work they do. Not just with the huge amount of wildlife they aid every year but because of the fact that even with all of that there still is time to post pictures and stories - both good and bad - to educate, elighten, amuse and sadden us. From Mac and her band of Pawsians I have learned so many things about wild animals that I never knew before, knowledge that led me to tell a friend that thought they would adopt a wild critter that it was a bad idea and to contact her local rehabber. Mac has a great writing style that makes her daily adventures come alive and I wish I could do more to help!
Although I live in a city far from Paws, I look forward to the stories and pictures. I have never seen most of the animals helped by Paws, so it is very educational and often entertaining to read the posts, Sometimes I laugh and sometimes I cry. It is so encouraging to see such a dedicated group of people making a difference. Keep up the inspirational work.
A highly recommended rescue for charitable donations -- PAWS Animal Wildlife Rescue is top notch, honest, committed to the injured, dedicated to rescue, established and has loyally been rehabilitating wildlife for many years...
They accept PayPal donations - You can visit their website for additional information on donating online. www.paws-sc.com
Checks may be mailed to:
Paws, Inc.
PO Box 157
Waterloo, SC 29384
They also take credit/debit card donations via phone at (864) 683-3190.
All donations are tax deductible! All work is done by volunteers so no money is spent on staffing or salaries!

paws.sc 01/09/2014
Mandy, I have enjoyed 'changing your life'! I think I have it just the way I want it now! Thank you for your love, support, and help. You help make PAWS what it is! (Wag, wag, wag!)
Throughout my life I have been involved with several non-profit organizations and I have to say that Mac and PAWS has touched my heart more deeply than anything I've ever been involved with. The passion that Mac has for the animals is indescribable, it's something that has to be seen. I am so glad that I decided to make that first trip to PAWS to paint raptor houses in the rain and to wash feed buckets... I was awe struck from the very first day. I continue to give as much as I can to PAWS: my time, my labor, my money, my respect and mostly my love. I feel everything that Mac feels when she updates us on FB about animals that have been rescued, if she's happy because they're doing good - I'm happy, if she's worried because they should be doing better - I'm worried, if she's sad because despite everything she has tried the animal lost the battle - I'm sad... it's almost like she's my soul sister! :) I have watched this woman work until her body has given out, I have seen her go with out so that an animals WILL have. She is one of the most unselfish, most devoted, most compassionate women I have ever had the pleasure of working beside. I'm proud to say I'm a PAWS volunteer!! And love the fact that I can call Mac my friend!

paws.sc 01/09/2014
PAWS is as good as it is because of awesome volunteers, such as yourself, who put their heart and soul into everything they do, no matter how yucky the job is! My deepest of thanks to you for all your help. Thank you for this amazing recommendation.....you made my eyes tear up.
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Unfortunately I have only been to PAWS once to volunteer my time, but I promise to get back as soon as things settle down a bit. I had a wonderful experience while there. Mac is a down to earth compassionate woman and loves to talk about her rescues. I could have listened to her stories all day long but there was work to be done! I painted, as much as I could even tho it was drizzling rain in one of the rapture houses and it was too cool to be surrounded by birds, some who were inquisitive and some who were very quiet. The only animals I got to meet other than King Fido were the educational birds, which I understood completely. You can't rehab animals if they are too use to people, so even though I wanted to see the babies I knew better than to ask. I washed feed tubs and even though I'm not big into washing dishes I enjoyed the experience because I knew these tubs were used for a saving lives! I just can't say enough good things about Mac and PAWS.... you need to experience it yourself to understand. Thank you Mac for having me and I WILL be back!!!
It's hard to find the right words to describe this sanctuary and the people who care for these animals. It's simply AMAZING what they do! They pour their blood, sweat, tears, heart and soul into ALL the animals that come through their doors! EVERY animal that comes in here is important! No matter how large or how small, no matter how serious or how minor the injury or sickness is, every means possible is put to use in trying to save them and make them as comfortable and at ease as possible. I follow them on facebook, and i've laughed and cried right along with Mac, who runs Paws, is the primary caregiver, and keeps us up to date on the animals that are brought in. You cant help but get wrapped up in the animals with her wonderful way of telling their stories! I thank God that these sweet babies have a place like this to go to for help!
Best Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Sanctuary in the world! So much I could say, but instead, I suggest you just follow them on Facebook for two weeks (or even day or two) and I know your heart and mind will be so touched and filled with so much love and admiration and a sense of dedication -- that most of you, will probably, be brought to the point of tears. Very simply put, I have so much love and respect for this organization, and after your time with them of Facebook, I guarantee, you will share in that same love and admiration and amazement that such an organization as PAWS even exists. Paws is in constant need of your assistance for rehab and rescue --- and so if looking for the best place to put your dollars, with the greatest reward imaginable -- well, HERE IT IS!!! Look no further and please consider a financial contribution -- with every penny going directly towards the rescue, welfare, and extensive medical care of the various animals it serves (as there is no paid staff). So, give a dollar or two, save a life, rehab an animal, and then watch as the money you have given results in, (just one example of many), a rehabilitated owl or hawk set off to fly freely into the sky. For what could be more moving than that? How could anyone's dollar go further than that? Sincerely, Janet Parker
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The Heart and Dedication of the Paws Wildlife Sanctuary is staggering. I follow their countless efforts and love of the animals they rehab via Facebook. I will be donating to PAWS in the future because I know that every penny they get is greatly needed and put to good use. I am in awe of the endless work they perform on a daily basis in order to make the world a better place. PAWS deserves all the good press, accolades, and donations they receive -- for it is called, Karma...
Paws is such a blessing for all the sick and injuried animals. No one works harder to save them than Mac. She works from morning to night with no pay and relies solely on donations to feed, vet. bills, transportation, and all the things it takes to save the animals and return them to the wild. Mac has given her life to helping the animals that are in trouble. If you love animals please consider donating so she can continue this work. I can assure you that every dime you give will go to the animals. She is my Hero.
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I am so thankful for this sanctuary. So many animals are being saved that otherwise would be left to suffer and die alone. Mac is a wonderful person that spends her life saving God's little creatures. If I ever win the lottery most of the money would go to her as she has to survive on donations. She is my hero. The animals get wonderful care and when they are healed they get to go back to the wild.
Mac and her volunteers do an amazing job.....some of the stories of success will warm you heart after all the countless hours she puts in to save these animals but others will make you cry after you have followed their progress and they don't survive. Mac is so good to post progress reports and we get so involved with each animal. There are times when she needs so much like a freezer to put food in for the animals because hers has died or a washing machine to wash the linens and the public rallys to provide what they can ....There definitely is a special place in heaven for one that does this kind of rescue work. The joy of releasing one back into the wild in indescribable.
I became aware of this organization via Facebook, and am so glad I did. I have done wildlife rehabilitation since the early 1980's and am very familiar with the hard work and dedication it takes to take care of orphaned and injured wildlife. It is expensive, there are many late nights and early mornings. There is heartbreak and joy. Mac Mercedes not only gives excellent, expert care to the wildlife that come to her, but she still finds time to keep the public informed and educated via Facebook and public appearances. The professionalism, perserverance, patience and compassion displayed through the work of this sanctuary makes me happy to donate funds when I can, and to share their site and information every chance I get. (I also signed up for iGive- every little bit helps!)
Mac is absolutely AMAZING!! We run a pig rescue and have learned so much from her. We have visited her facility and have never met someone with so much heart for these animals. Not only do she rescue these precious animals but works tirelessly to educate the public on wildlife. She put these animals first and does whatever it takes to put their health and safety first!! Please support this amazing organization!!
Not only is this cause worthy, it is vital and noble. I have met Mac on a couple of occasions, one fund raiser and I have donated used lumber. I now make my online purchases through the igive program to keep a steady trickle of cash flow going to PAWS. I follow the Facebook page daily. My heart thrills at the success stories and breaks when an animal doesn't make it. What I have observed, Mac apparently is tireless and does not need the same amount of sleep my own body requires. Her love of wildlife and her bottomless well of compassion are extremely moving and totally necessary to the work she had commit herself to do. She educates frequently the "do's and do not's" of what to do when finding a wild animal either in distress or just seemingly lost. (i.e. fawn alone, no mother in view, baby birds hopping on the ground, nest of baby bunnies, no parent in view) This information serves the general public very well! How many fawns do you suppose are removed from the areas their mothers left them in due to ignorance? Too many! I will continue to donate money and building materials when I have them. I also encourage my friends to do the same through sharing information on my own Facebook wall. This is a very well run organization with the emphasis where it should be ... on the wildlife. I have submitted an application to help transport animals as needed.
Where does one begin about Mac. First of all she has a heart of gold. She is truly one that 'TALKS TO THE ANIMALS".
Mac's love of animals is evident when you look in her eyes and when you listen to her talk to one of her animals as she begins to release it back into the wild where it belongs and with that release a part of heart goes with it.
What you don't see is her silent tears as she tries to save the llfe of an animal that she knows may not make it over night, but she does not and will not give up.
The lady that runs this sanctuary has so much passion and love for all the animals that she takes in. I don't even think she sleeps! She has so much knowledge on how to treat the injured, or how to take care of the tiniest of animals. You can tell just by her face book posts how much she cares for every animal that comes in. When she says she cried, it makes me want to cry. I wish I had as much passion for my job as she does. She truly is a great lady! She has changed all of these animals lives!
I found out about PAWS when I recently moved to the area and was looking for a group which shared my deep interest in preserving the wildlife of the area. I was fortunate enough to find them via Facebook and have been intensely impressed by their efforts. Not only do they do their work passionately and on a shoestring budget, they are superb in their work to educate the general public on the many ways we can protect nature's creatures. I am hopeful that I will soon be able to volunteer with the group and help them in any way I can because they certainly are making a positive influence.
My first contact with Mac was when I accidentally trapped a skunk and she talked me through how to release it and not get sprayed. And she was 100% right and I was successful thank God lol.
Then she posted she ans other volunteers where putting up netting on the pens and I had an electric stapler and extention cord so I asked her if she could use it. She did time saver. and it was a big time saver.
She posted one day she had a call for a fawn that had been hit and she needed someone to transport it. So my husband and I picked it up. always keeps all the followers of Paws up to date on what is going on and of any needs she has. She is a true inspiration and has helped alot of animals that would have surely died without Paws.
I took some donations out to PAWS and was well impressed with what all they do with what they have. Mac runs an excellent facility on what must be 1-1/2 shoestrings and a whole bunch of prayer. I hope to become a regular volunteer to help with all she does for several communities around her.
We saw a red tailed hawk get hit by truck and it couldn't get back up. Mate was screaming from above so we made note of exact location with hopes of full recovery so she could be released. Her injuries were extensive and it was touch and go for awhile. It took several months for her to get better but we finally got the call that she was ready to be released. Thanks Mac for taking such great care of her. What a amazing day it was seeing he fly.
Great organization that provides special care to any wildlife that needs rehab. I help transport injured and/or orphaned wildlife to PAWS. After a few months of care, the animal is returned to be free. It's an awesome organization that helps preserve our wildlife.
Wonderful to work with! I often do volunteer work with them and I have taken rescues to them as well! Great work helping to save upstate south Carolina's wildlife!!!
Last summer, after finding a female hummingbird desperately trying to feed from one of my several feeders then falling under the feeder i found that she had a broken lower beak. Having been Facebook friends with PAWS I immediately called them then took the bird to Mac for help, While the bird did not survive the night I know that all effort was made to help her. I appreciated the caring and I appreciated being informed of the outcome. Thanks again PAWS!
I am an animal lover from Laurens SC. PAWS is known to me as the 'go to' for injured wildlife. They have a track record that backs up what they say.
I met Mac when i took a cooper hawk to her for help and was amazed at at what one women can do for so many animals ! She dedicates not just alot but every bit of her time with the animals that need help ! Saying she is amazing is an understatement ! Thank you so much Mac !
I have worked with Paws for over a year as a volunteer wildlife rehaber. I have found the experience very stimulating and well worth my time. This organization takes wildlife rescue very seriously. I will continue to offer my time and services to this organization.
As a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in Virginia, I worked with an outstanding organization. When I moved to South Carolina, I contacted two wildlife organizations, neither of which I was willing to donate my time or money to as they just didn't seem to be well organized. After speaking with PAWS several months ago and attending two classes, it reminded me of the great organization I had worked with in Virginia, that I still stay in touch with. I decided to offer PAWS my property as a release site for native wildlife ready for return to nature. I have been releasing squirrels so far, but plan to release other species as release cages are built. It takes a special person to do wildlife rehabilitation and a special person to organize, motivate, and lead a non-profit at the same time. PAWS is that organization worth committing to.
I am amazed that is in this day and times that people will give all of theirselves to help poor little animals (no matter what kind of animals). And Mrs. Curry gets nothing back except to see the animals released back to the wild, healthy and full of life. I love to watch her facebook page on all the great and some sad stories. But she does keep you inform on the progress of the animals. I am so proud to have her in my community and great honor to know her.
PAWS is run by one very dedicated woman (MAC) and lot of volunteers. I first met MAC in Greenville at a fundraiser where she was handing out flyers with information about wildlife to passers-by. Since then, I've picked up a batch of orphaned opossums to care for, and am hoping to do more when time allows. I highly recommend her organization. If you have time, take a class with her and raise of batch of squirrels or opossums yourself! It's rewarding, and she could use the help! If you can't do that, please consider sending a donation for food.
I have been trained by PAWS to transport injured wildlife, and to care for baby squirrels. I have witnessed the care, love, and focus to rehabilitate wildlife and return them to their natural state. MAC makes use of every bit of help that she can. I have helped at an expo, Her posts also educate all of us in the proper care of wildlife (when they need help and when they don't!) I have picked up injured wildlife and brought to PAWS. picked up wildlife from another rehab center to transport to PAWS, helped pick up cages and a freezer that were being discarded. I personally have donated money to help in the care of these animals. This organization is truly dedicate to rehabbing wildlife. I look forward to volunteering more when I retire at the end of this school year.
I have contacted PAWS for a few problems I was having and I was needing some advice. Mac freely gave her time and expertise when I needed it. I have been watching and following Paws for about 2 years now and it seeme to me to be a very well operated rehab center
I attended a class to learn about raising baby squirrels and opossums a few months ago and although I work at another Wildlife Rehabilitation Center like PAWS, I learned alot from the class. I also took information from the class to my rehabilitation center and everyone was eager to hear new ideas about squirrel and opossum rehabilitation.
I have recently had the pleasure of meeting Mac and being exposed to the wonderful work provided by PAWS. Because of the caring people behind this organization, our unfortunate wildlife get a second chance at life. I have been collecting baby possums who were orphaned. Because of PAWS, they will be able to grow into Possum adults and once again be released into the wild.
P.A.W.S. IS SUCH A GREAT ASSET TO THE WORLD OF WILDLIFE! THEY SAVE LIVES AND EDUCATE THE PUBLIC. :) and the stories about Fido... well those are just plain FUNNY!
PAWS is absolutely the place to seek advice for wildlife. They are very knowledgeable and caring and do their best to make sure every animal in their care gets the attention it needs to insure it will be able to continue in the wild on it's own. Big thumbs up!
I love to read about all the help Paws gives to wildlife on Facebook. They seem to be so caring and knowledgeable.
PAWS is staffed by wonderful people...all volunteers donating their own time and resources to help animals in need. Need more people in the world who have such big caring hearts. I'm so grateful for the work they do.
PAWS is one of the few organizations out there that actually use 100 percent of the donations toward their cause. This group is dedicated to caring for wildlife and go beyond the call of duty to help a creature in need. Amazing organization! I believe in the work they do and the moral ethic behind it.