Eric Ofsthus is the PAWS Shelter Manager. After volunteering for three years, Eric has now worked at the Shelter for fourteen years!!! He had no formal experience when he started and was trained on the job. To further his knowledge Eric attends educational seminars, conferences as well as keeping up to date on the latest research.

As the Shelter Manager Eric oversees the general operation of the Shelter and supervises the volunteers and Staff. He also manages the care of the animals at the shelter. Eric is in a position where he can educate the Public, as well as the staff and volunteers, on Companion animal issues. This education helps to match people with dogs and cats to ensure a lifetime bond.

Eric loves each and every animal that comes into PAWS. He has lots of interesting stories to tell," There is a new interesting animal every day. Today it is a Miniature Pinscher dog named Michael that has the wisest face I have ever seen."

Eric continues, "I used to look out the window as every dog that was adopted was going out the door to ensure they got in their new cars safely. I noticed that not one looked back at the shelter as they were heading out. They seemed to be completely trusting that this was going to be a new adventure and everything was going to be all right. Then one day Autumn the Border Collie mix was going across the parking lot with her new 16 year old companion holding the leash. By this time I had probably watched 10,000 animals go out that door. (yes,10,000). This time however, they got halfway across the parking when Autumn just stopped. She must have sensed me standing in the doorway because she turned around and looked me right in the eye and wagged her tail. Some times they do look back."