Helping animals is Amber Talbot’s passion

Amber Talbot has been a fixture at PAWS & More Animal Shelter in Washington for 16 years.

As the shelter's director, Talbot wears many hats.

“I manage all the operations from animal care to staffing to fundraising and grant writing,” Talbot said. “I really enjoy my job, because I get to do a variety of things.”

On one day, she may be giving shots to animals, and on another day, she may be handling administrative duties or writing a grant.

“I love it, because no two days are ever the same,” she said.

PAWS helps more than 900 animals in Washington County and surrounding counties every year.

“A lot of people are surprised when they hear that number,” Talbot said.

By helping that many animals, PAWS is serving the community.

“There's a health and safety component to what we do,” Talbot said. “We promote health and safety in the community.”

By taking in and caring for stray and other unwanted animals, PAWS helps reduce animal diseases, animal overpopulation and even dog bites in the community.

Animals are not the only ones who benefit from the work that PAWS does.

“A big part of our job is working with people,” Talbot said. “We help people and their animals at the same time. They go hand-in-hand.

“Sometimes, we're like social workers for the people who come in.”

For Talbot, the most rewarding aspect of her job is helping animals who have been in particularly difficult situations.

PAWS has taken in and cared for several animals who have been ill or injured, almost to the point of death.

“My favorite part is when we have truly saved the life of an animal facing death from trauma or illness,” Talbot said. “You can see it in their eyes when they start to trust you.”

Comments: james.jennings@southeastiowaunion.com