Date-less this Valentine’s Day? Or are you just looking for a different experience, whether on your own or with your special someone?
The excitement surrounding V-Day is already at fever pitch, with love-themed events and promos in usual dating spots like hotels, restaurants, and malls going full steam ahead. There are, however, other more unique options out there. They may seem less romantic at first glance but could be just as memorable and meaningful (even more so!).
Why not date a rescued animal on Valentine’s Day, instead? Whether you’re single, taken, or celebrating V-Day with family or friends, if you’re an animal lover, the PAWS Furst Date might be the perfect Valentine’s activity for you.
Raising awareness on pet adoption
Join the volunteers at the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) shelter on Valentine’s week, from Feb. 12 to 17, and go on a date with one of their adorable rescued cats or dogs. After all, spending time with a furry friend is always time well spent!
In an interview with Reuters last year, Sharon Yap, PAWS campaign officer, said they hope the activity would make the participants fall in love with the shelter animals.
“The awareness for pet adoption is not that high, and there are still a lot of people buying pets. And it’s a sad fact that a lot of animals in the shelter can give all the love that they can give, but they aren’t given any chance,” she explained.
The perfect V-Day deal
The annual PAWS Furst Date charges a P750 entry fee which will go toward running the shelter that has over 240 dogs and cats in its care. The fee includes a 30-minute date with a shelter cutie of your choice that comes with a delicious snack and drinks for both of you to enjoy. PAWS also has a small token prepared just for you.
It goes without saying that the opportunity to give love and attention to a rescued animal that needs it the most is priceless. It’s also a unique and unforgettable Valentine’s date experience you and your new furry friend will cherish—and one which you can also flex on social media.
You can book your date through the PAWS website. Payment is via GCash only and you should upload your proof of payment to proceed with the reservation.
PAWS volunteers advise arriving at least 15 to 20 minutes before your confirmed time slot to select a shelter animal you want to go on a date with. Those who are late for their reserved slots will have to wait for other slots to be freed up should one be available later in the day.
As this is a fundraiser with limited slots, please be on time—you don’t want to keep your date waiting after all!
Since 1954, PAWS, a registered non-profit organization, has been dedicated to the protection and the promotion of humane treatment of all animals. Despite being a crime in the Philippines, many cases of animal cruelty go unreported.
According to PAWS, there are about 12 million stray cats and dogs in the Philippines as of 2019, which are either former family pets or those who have reproduced in the streets due to lack of proper shelter.
Visit the PAWS website to volunteer or donate. You can also follow its social media accounts on Facebook or Instagram for updates on events and activities.
