DRIGGS, Idaho — New Director of Teton Valley Shelter Operations Ann Loyola and Facilities Manager Jay Parton were welcomed in February by PAWS employees, along with dozens of dogs and cats.
Now under management of the regional PAWS nonprofit organization, the shelter has a long history of service and support among valley residents.
“Teton Valley is growing, and our shelter populations are at an all-time high due to inflation and the housing crisis. Ann and Jay will add strong support for both the human and local animal population,” says PAWS Executive Director Amy Moore.
Ann brings decades of management experience in both the nonprofit and for-profit world, including leadership roles in public relations, marketing, development and strategic planning. She joined the PAWS Teton Valley Advisory Circle over one year ago to assist with the ownership transition. Jay, in addition to providing years of expertise in facilities project management, will be the point person for managing the volunteer program.
Discussions about building a new shelter are ongoing, while urgent facility improvements are underway. The original structure is more than 25 years old, with an additional wing that was added after the original construction thanks to county-wide charitable support.
“I was surprised to learn that PAWS of Jackson Hole had been granting significant funding support to our shelter for years prior to agreeing to taking the reins,” says Ann. “PAWS leadership has taken a leap of faith to direct their focus to Idaho. It’s an inspiring testament to the heart-based relationship that exists between both communities. Since then, all our family cats have come from this local shelter.”
“I probably hold the record for the fastest foster fail. After working three days, I’ve already adopted a new pup!” said Jay, who lives in Victor with his fiancé, two parakeets and now two dogs. “It’s important to me that our community knows about the many services we offer for pet owners and homeless dogs and cats. And I’m so impressed by the care and commitment of PAWS employees.”
Moving forward, PAWS’ goals include replenishing the existing MedFund to assist valley pet owners with veterinary expenses, promoting spay and neuter discount vouchers, supporting shelter cats’ and dogs’ rehabilitation and adoptability and reducing the feral cat community through education and humane approaches.
“We’re excited to strengthen and expand pet care support within Teton Valley,” says Amy. “We’ve brought in an experienced management team, and both Ann and Jay are committed to the welfare of Teton Valley animal companions.”
For more information, call (208) 354-3499 or visit www.pawsofjh.org, or click the button below.
The shelter is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Please schedule an appointment if you’d like to visit a specific adoptable dog or cat.
PAWS’ mission is to prevent pet homelessness, to protect pets from harm and suffering and to promote responsible ownership. We are funded 100% by individual donations and generous grants. We are not tax-funded.
