Animal Rescue Community Grieves Loss of PAWS Founder Tammy Smith

Family members and friends are honoring Tammy Smith, who was renowned for her commitment to animal rescues. As the founder of PAWS Rescue Group, she succumbed to lung cancer on April 25 following a yearlong battle with the disease.

"Extremely compassionate, highly tolerant, and very liberal with her time, she cherished animals above all else, just after her family," stated Jared Smith, who was Tammy's spouse.

Driven by her love for animals, Tammy founded PAWS, an organization that has rescued numerous dogs and cats throughout the last ten years. Despite their uncertainty regarding the shelter’s future, the volunteers remain dedicated to honoring Tammy's ultimate desires.

Dakota Bardwell, a dedicated PAWS volunteer, voiced her optimism regarding the organization’s prospects. She stated, “Although we remain uncertain about the path ahead for the PAWS rescue group, I believe that witnessing it reach completion would bring a smile to her face as though she were watching over us.”

The non-profit organization is asking for community assistance to cover outstanding veterinary expenses by contributing to the Dowlen Road Veterinary Center in Beaumont. Since Tammy’s passing, PAWS still cares for three dogs and aims to find these animals caring homes.

Fred Smith, Tammy’s son, recounted how profoundly his mother impacted numerous individuals. “It’s fascinating to discover just how many people encountered her and have deeply personal anecdotes about their experiences,” he noted. “She seemed to possess so many facets that remain hidden from view most times. While it feels bittersweet now, it’s wonderful to witness all these aspects coming into light.”

The rescue group intends to organize a dog washing fundraising event complete with a raffle and bake sale to cover their outstanding veterinary expenses; however, an exact date for this initiative hasn’t been established yet. The enduring impact of Tammy Smith’s work continues through the animals she rescued and the community her efforts galvanized.