The PAWS Board of Directors issued the following statement May 23:

On April 25, 2024, Shelly Butler, former Executive Director of PAWS Animal Adoption Center resigned from the organization to pursue new opportunities. Butler’s departure has been the source of speculation, and PAWS and Butler wish to make clear that each wishes the other continued success.

As reported in the Camden Herald, the PAWS Board of Directors is “grateful for Shelly’s dedicated service to PAWS. We appreciate her passion for the PAWS mission and the enthusiasm with which she led the organization and wish her well in her future endeavors.”

PAWS Board President Michelle Davis recognizes that “[t]ransitions are never easy but PAWS will continue providing its critical services for our community, including providing care for homeless dogs and cats and promoting humane values in our community through outreach and educational programs such as our PAWS Cares community veterinary clinic.”

Reflecting on her eight years with the organization, Butler is, “proud to have led the organization through the transformation from animal shelter to a full-service animal support center that cares for not only homeless pets but also serves owned pets through an array of supportive services and programs including the PAWS Cares Community Veterinary Clinic.”

Butler states, “I want to express my sincere appreciation for the support of the Board, staff, volunteers, and the entire PAWS community. The work we do here is vital, and I have full confidence that the organization will continue to thrive. My decision to resign is entirely personal and I am grateful for those who have respected my privacy and are supporting my choice.”

As Gwendolyn Hudson of Rockport transitions into her role as Interim Director, Butler joins the PAWS Board in encouraging the community to rally behind PAWS’ new leadership, to prioritize PAWS’ mission, and to invest in PAWS’ continued success.