Friends of Westerly Animal Shelter (FOWAS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded by dedicated volunteers of the Westerly Animal Shelter. Our mission is simple: to provide vital financial support that ensures every animal in the shelter receives the medical care they need and deserve.From surgeries and ultrasounds to x-rays, dental procedures, bloodwork, and other critical treatments — we step in to cover costs that go beyond the shelter’s budget.We are proud to operate with full transparency and commitment: 100% of every dollar donated goes directly to the care of the animals at Westerly Animal Shelter.
Our Mission
At Friends of Westerly Animal Shelter, our mission is to heal the wounded, comfort the fearful, and build trust with the unsure. We are committed to doing everything within our power to help each animal become healthy, confident, and ready to find a loving forever home.
Who We Support
The Westerly Animal Shelter is a municipal branch of Westerly, Rhode Island. The Animal Shelter Department is responsible for the impoundment, adoption, safe keeping (in the event of emergency), and education of pet owners in the community. The shelter provides a clean, safe, loving, healthy environment until animals find their forever homes. They provide community outreach through their volunteer program, microchip/wellness clinics and an annual rabies clinic. All pets leaving the shelter are spayed/neutered and current on vaccinations through their onsite vet care program.
Donate!
Every single dollar donated to the Friends of Westerly Animal Shelter goes to the animals.
All donations to FOWAS are tax deductible as we are a 501(c)3 (EIN: 45-4078342).
If you would like a tax deductible receipt for your donation, please include your email in the comments/notes section of any donations via Venmo or PayPal.The animal shelter also accepts physical donations. Please click the link below to see the shelter's wish list.
Volunteer Resources
Interested in volunteering? Click the link below to visit the Westerly Animal Shelter website to learn more.
Adoption Resources
Westerly Animal Shelter welcomes everyone who is considering adopting a shelter animal.
Dogs and cats available for adoption have all been examined by a veterinarian and are up to date on vaccinations appropriate for their age. All dogs have also been administered a flea and tick treatment. All cats have been Feline Aids/Leukemia tested, dewormed and administered a flea treatment.All dogs and cats adopted from the shelter are spayed or neutered prior to leaving the facility in accordance to Rhode Island law.Click the link below to visit the Westerly Animal Shelter website for additional adoption information.
News & Events
Find us on Facebook to see regular shelter updates and information on upcoming fundraising events.