After decades of caring for abandoned animals in the Douglas Shire, Paws and Claws Port Douglas has launched a major fundraising campaign to clear its final hurdle: retiring a $360,000 loan on its world-class Craiglie shelter.

The not-for-profit organisation, operated by the Homeless Animal Society and Boarding Kennels Inc., has been a lifeline for local cats and dogs since the 1980s. 

After spending several years without a permanent home between 2016 and 2021, the charity secured a loan to fund a $2.2 million, purpose-built shelter in Craiglie.

Most of the cost has been covered thanks to government grants, major donors, and support from the community through the Mossman charity shop, but $360,000 still remains to be raised.

Michael Kerr, President of the association and former Mayor of Douglas Shire, said the team’s goal is to open the facility debt-free.

“We didn’t build this facility for prestige, we built it because we were tired of turning away animals that had nowhere else to go,” he said.

“The final stage of construction is now underway, and our dream is to open the completed complex free of debt, allowing us to focus entirely on our mission: rescuing and rehoming animals in need, not paying off interest on loans.”

This fundraiser is not just about dollars, it’s about stories. 

Like Dotty, the four-month-old puppy rescued during Cyclone Jasper after being run over in Wujal Wujal. 

Thanks to a helicopter evacuation, emergency vet care, and community donations, Dotty received veterinary treatment totalling over $10,000, funded by Paws and Claws, and is now enjoying a full life with her adoptive parents.

“Dotty’s story captured hearts across Australia, and she’s just one of hundreds we’ve helped thanks to the community’s compassion and generosity. We hope this fundraiser will allow us to do even more,” Mr Kerr said.