By Pat Maurer
Correspondent
Kudos to Clare Business Owner Jim Paetschow who, in the spirit of the Christmas season and because of his love for animals, recently “Paid it Forward” when he decided to donate all adoption fees at the Clare Animal Shelter through the end of the year.
Because of his generosity, some area youngsters have already been able to adopt cats from the shelter and have written to Jim expressing their thanks and even sent him pictures of their new “fur” buddies.
But Jim wasn’t looking for “thank-yous,” he said, when he decided to help with adoptions. He just loves dogs and wants other community members to have the opportunity to experience the joy they can bring into a person’s life.
He added, “Every little bit helps! Let’s spread the love and make a difference this holiday season!”
Jim owns Jim’s Body Shop, Sound Productions, Red Hook Properties and the Tobacco Ranch event venue among his many business ventures.
And he not only supports the Animal Shelter throughout the year, Jim also supports local school and organizations throughout the community, but he loves his dogs, and has shared his home with many throughout the years.
At the body shop, customers waiting on repairs can spend some quality time with his latest, two chocolate Labs (Bandit and Yogi) who are on hand to give them some attention and love of course, and to “brighten their day.”
He said he would love for all of the shelter pets to get a new home for Christmas this year, and he makes it a habit to promote the pets at the Animal Shelter to friends, customers and everyone in the area that he can reach, asking for, not just adoptions, but donations of blankets, toys and food as well as a little of their time to bring some comfort to those homeless shelter pets with a little attention or by just taking them for a walk.
He said, “The Clare Animal Shelter does vital work in caring for animals in need. Adopting a pet not only provides a loving home for an animal, but also opens up space for shelters to take in more animals. If you are unable to adopt, consider volunteering, fostering or donating.”
The shelter is always in need of supplies, like Purina dog and cat chow, cleaning supplies, spray bleach, laundry detergent and lemon cleaner for the mops. When there is a shortage Jim finds some people to fill those needs or fills them himself. He spreads the word by promoting the shelter on social media.
In fact, Jim’s Body Shop takes donations all year round for the shelter and delivers them to the Harrison facility. He also holds an annual fundraiser for the Animal Shelter at the Tobacco Ranch.
Jim encourages others to help. “This holiday season, please remember the animals at all of the shelters. Adopt, foster, donate or volunteer if you can,” he said. “Remember any little bit helps.”
“Happy Holidays everyone!”
Love this ❣️