LAWS Receives $30,000 from the Eric S. Margolis Foundation

A Lifeline for Veterinary Care

We are delighted to share that LAWS has received a generous $30,000 grant from the Eric S. Margolis Foundation to support urgent and preventive veterinary care for the animals in our shelter.

The Foundation was established to support animal welfare, with an emphasis on Canadian-based charitable organizations. For LAWS, this funding comes at a critical time. Hundreds of animals pass through our care each year, and many require veterinary attention ranging from diagnostics and medications to specialized diets, surgery, and rehabilitation. For some animals, timely medical intervention can make the difference between a poor prognosis and a second chance at a healthy life.

The impact of this funding can already be seen in the animals who have needed us most.

Four kittens, one big bill

Kitten season has been particularly challenging this year, with dangerous viral infections affecting local cat populations. Our foster families and animal care team respond quickly when kittens show signs of illness, but some need emergency veterinary treatment that cannot be provided at the shelter. This summer, many have made urgent trips to Kawartha Emergency Veterinary Clinic for intensive care.

One litter, born to a mother named Bugg, was particularly fragile. Her kittens spent a week at KVEC receiving medications and around-the-clock supportive care. Their prognosis was uncertain, and at such a young age, every day mattered.

Thanks to the dedicated veterinary team at KVEC, kittens Snake (above), Toad, Turtle, and Mosquito returned to their foster home, where they continued to grow into playful young cats. Today, they’re nearly ready to find families of their own.

Their care came at a significant cost: nearly $15,000 for one litter. Unfortunately, they are not the only kittens who have needed medical attention this summer.

A second chance for Bella and Randy

Bella and Randy, two senior Shih Tzu mixes, arrived at LAWS together in June. Their medical needs were extensive, including painful ear infections, inflammation affecting their eyes and skin, thyroid concerns, and significant dental disease.

They required immediate medications and dietary changes, and they’ll undergo dental surgeries in September. Because their care includes daily medications and additional procedures still to come, their total veterinary costs continue to grow.

Their first few weeks at LAWS were understandably difficult. Bella and Randy were fearful as they adjusted to a new environment while coping with pain and uncertainty. Two months later, the change has been remarkable. Although they have some ongoing conditions that will require management, this bonded pair are enjoying life again—especially outdoor time—and happily soaking up attention from the people around them.

Their veterinary care has been about more than simply treating illness. It has given them the opportunity to feel comfortable, regain confidence, and begin moving toward a future in a loving home.

A much-needed boost, and an ongoing need

The $30,000 grant from the Eric S. Margolis Foundation has provided LAWS with much-needed support at a time when veterinary expenses are exceptionally high. In the case of Bugg’s kittens, this funding meant we could respond to an emergency without immediately turning to our community with another urgent fundraising appeal.

We are deeply grateful for that breathing room.

A grant like this is a short-term support to our work, but not a replacement for the community contributions that make our work possible. Veterinary expenses are a constant, with new animals arriving, existing residents requiring ongoing treatment, and emergencies that inevitably arise. Our foundation remains the generous individuals, families, and businesses who donate to LAWS throughout the year. Every donation helps us say yes when an animal needs care.

We are incredibly grateful to the Eric S. Margolis Foundation for investing in the health and future of animals at LAWS. Their support is already helping animals heal and move closer to the homes they deserve.

And to everyone who supports LAWS through donations, volunteering, fostering, and adoption: thank you. It takes all of us to give these animals their second chances.