Saving Paws Animal Rescue of Kentucky
Saving Paws Animal Rescue of Kentucky is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Owensboro, dedicated to reducing euthanasia rates in area shelters, promoting spay/neuter education, and encouraging pet adoption throughout Kentucky. Our mission is to create lifelong bonds between deserving dogs and cats and loving families, ensuring they thrive in safe, nurturing homes. Through education, advocacy, and hands-on care, SparKy strives to make a positive, sustainable impact in our community and beyond.
Founded in 2006 by John and Bridget Austin as a foster-based rescue, SparKy received its 501(c)(3) status in 2009. In 2022, we opened our brick-and-mortar rescue center on 18th Street in Owensboro, expanding our reach while continuing to rely on foster homes for most of our animals. Local shelters count on SparKy to save animals at risk of euthanasia due to space or medical needs. Each year, we take in numerous major medical and special-needs cases—from emergency surgeries and parvovirus treatment to amputations, heartworm-positive dogs, and FeLV/FIV-positive cats—along with countless litters of puppies and kittens.
Every animal in our care is spayed or neutered, vaccinated, treated for parasites, given flea and tick prevention, and microchipped before adoption. At SparKy, we believe every life matters, and we work tirelessly to give every pet the second chance they deserve..