In this episode of WHQC, we have the pleasure of interviewing Patti McRae, the Executive Director of the Quad City Animal Welfare Center (QCAWC). Patti shares with us some exciting upcoming events that the shelter has organized, including the Par Fore Pets Golf Outing, where participants will have the opportunity to play golf alongside some adorable shelter dogs. We also learn about the Pups and Pints event, a fun-filled day at Pour Brothers Tap Room that will feature vendors, raffles, and the chance to purchase flea and tick products, all while enjoying live music and food trucks.
Patti takes us on a journey through her background and motivation for joining the QCAWC. Coming from a shelter in Springfield, Illinois, where the focus was on humane investigations, Patti was attracted to the QCAWC's emphasis on education, spay/neuter programs, and adoptions. Since joining the QCAWC, Patti has lead significant strides in expanding the education programs and opening a separate spay/neuter clinic, resulting in the successful spaying/neutering of around 4,000 animals each year.
The QCAWC takes a unique approach to animal shelters, focusing on creating a warm and inviting environment for both animals and visitors. Patti has intentionally designed the shelter to be clean and welcoming, drawing inspiration from other shelters she has visited. Customer service is a top priority, ensuring that everyone who visits has a positive experience. The staff and volunteers at the QCAWC are highly dedicated and compassionate, capable of handling both the joyful moments of adoptions and the difficult situations when people need to surrender their pets.
If you're looking for ways to get involved, Patti provides some excellent suggestions. You can volunteer at the shelter, assisting with walking dogs, socializing cats, cleaning, or helping with events. Additionally, the shelter has Amazon and Chewy wish lists, where you can donate much-needed items such as food, litter, toys, and other supplies. Finally, spreading the word and sharing the QCAWC's social media posts and events can help increase community involvement, making a positive impact on the shelter and the animals it cares for.
In a more personal note, Patti shares her love for visiting animal shelters with her husband during their travels. She recently adopted a Burmese mountain dog, formerly a retired breeding dog, and enjoys taking him to the park to explore the outdoors.
Overall, this podcast episode sheds light on the QCAWC's commitment to education, spay/neuter programs, and providing a welcoming experience for both animals and people. It serves as a call to action for the community to get involved and support the shelter's mission through volunteering, donations, and spreading the word.
Quad City Animal Welfare Center
Pups and Pints
Par Fore Pets Golf Outing
