At Arlington Animal Services, love comes in many forms. Sometimes it’s a cozy blanket for a nervous pup, a catnip-filled toy for a playful kitten, or a bright bandana that helps a shelter dog look their very best for potential adopters. Behind these thoughtful touches is a group of volunteers whose golden hearts shine as brightly as their name suggests.
Meet Golden PAWS (Golden People Are Willing and Sharing), a dedicated volunteer group that has been spreading joy at Arlington’s animal shelter since October 2010. These creative volunteers have turned crafting into a mission of compassion, meeting twice monthly to create comfort items that make a real difference in the lives of shelter animals.
Crafting with Purpose
“Golden PAWS is a volunteer group with the City of Arlington Animal Services,” explains Lynne Elliot, the group’s coordinator. “We make mostly blankets and wood art, and then we accept donations for the work. And then everything we make goes back to the Arlington shelter.”
The group’s handmade creations serve multiple purposes. Blankets provide warmth and comfort to animals adjusting to shelter life, while snuffle mats offer mental stimulation and enrichment. Each item is crafted with care, knowing it will bring comfort to an animal in need.
Beyond the practical benefits, these volunteers understand that their work helps shelter animals put their best paw forward. A colorful bandana or soft blanket can make all the difference in helping a pet catch the eye of a potential adopter.
A Special Focus on Senior Pets
Golden PAWS has expanded their mission with help from the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation, launching a special program dedicated to promoting adoptions of senior pets. These older animals often face longer shelter stays, but the group’s efforts help highlight their gentle nature and the special joy they bring to families.
“We’re doing something that needs to be done,” Elliot says, recognizing that senior pets deserve just as much love and attention as their younger counterparts.
Community, Friendship, and Fun
What makes Golden PAWS special isn’t just the items they create—it’s the spirit of community they’ve built. The twice-monthly meetings are as much about friendship and fellowship as they are about crafting.
“It’s fun, it’s for the community, it’s comradeship,” Elliot shares. “It’s I’m doing something useful, and I enjoy it.”
The group provides a welcoming space where volunteers can share ideas, learn new techniques, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something meaningful together. For many members, the social aspect is just as rewarding as the crafting itself.
Join the Golden PAWS Family
The group is always eager to welcome new volunteers who want to make a difference in the lives of shelter animals. Getting involved is straightforward and rewarding.
“We meet on the second and fourth Wednesdays at noon,” Elliot explains. “Anyone over 18 is welcome—we just ask that you complete the city’s volunteer paperwork and shelter training first.”
Whether you’re an experienced crafter or someone who’s never picked up a needle and thread, Golden PAWS has room for you. The group welcomes all skill levels and provides a supportive environment for learning and growing.
Making a Difference, One Project at a Time
For nearly 15 years, Golden PAWS has demonstrated that small acts of kindness can have big impacts. Their handmade blankets don’t just keep animals warm—they provide comfort during a stressful time. Their toys don’t just entertain—they help animals stay mentally engaged and happy.
Most importantly, their work helps shelter animals show their best selves to potential adopters, increasing their chances of finding forever homes.
Get Involved
Ready to join this heartwarming mission? Visit arlingtontx.gov/GoldenPAWS to learn more about the group and explore adoptable pets looking for their forever families.
For questions about volunteering or the program, contact Brittany Clark at [email protected] or 817-459-6183.
In a world that sometimes feels divided, Golden PAWS reminds us that coming together for a common cause—helping animals in need—creates connections that benefit everyone involved. These volunteers prove that when golden hearts unite, beautiful things happen.
Golden PAWS meets the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at noon. All volunteers 18 and older are welcome after completing city volunteer paperwork and shelter training.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_n9WKAvoCPw&t=1s&ab_channel=CityofArlington%2CTX
