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Mercy Four Paws and Claws: Needing Volunteers, Foster Homes & DonationsBy Sally KalosHaving lived in the San Antonio community for over 20 years, Monique and Loyd Wellesley both have deep-rooted connections to animals. Monique’s passion for animals began when she rescued her first dog off the streets at 18, and she has been rescuing animals for over 50 years. Loyd grew up on a small farm in Missouri/Arkansas, where he was influenced by his grandfather, a country veterinarian. Loyd has also cared for animals for more than 50 years.San Antonio's streets are overflowing with dogs and cats, many of them suffering from abuse, starvation, and neglect. Litter after litter continues to appear, and animals are left to fend for themselves. This heartbreaking situation inspired Monique and Loyd to do what they could to help by getting animals spayed or neutered, providing medical care, and feeding them, often using their own funds. However, the problem has become so vast that it is no longer sustainable for them to continue helping at their own expense.Mercy Four Paws and Claws was founded in May 2025 as a 501c3 non-profit rescue organization. Monique and Loyd are hoping with the set-up of the nonprofit to get sponsorships and donations to help with the growing needs of animals.The southside, eastside, and westsideMonique and Loyd Wellesley with fur babies.of San Antonio are particularly affected by this crisis, with packs of dogs and colonies of cats scattered throughout these areas. While Stone Oak has fewer issues, the problem still exists in their neighborhood. Monique and Loyd have witnessed the city's crisis firsthand and decided to apply for their 501c3 status in hopes of securing donations to help even more animals.The organization is seeking foster parents who have the time and knowledge to care for animals, especially those who mayneed medical attention. Foster homes must have a secure fence, reliable transportation to take animals to the vet, and a genuine love for animals. Many times, animals are transported out of state to reputable rescues where they are pre-adopted and matched with their new families before leaving San Antonio.Finding new owners for these animals can be challenging, as many people already have pets and cannot take on more. Potential owners must be able to afford veterinary care and provide a proper home and yard for the animals.When they take in an animal, they provide basic care such as baths, fleatreatment, and worming. After a short stay, the animal is vaccinated and spayed or neutered before being placed with a foster home.Monique and Loyd have been paying for everything out of pocket for years, but the need for help has grown too large for them to manage alone.For those looking to help, Mercy Four Paws and Claws can be contacted at (210) 363-5849. The organization is also on Facebook under "Mercy Four Paws and Claws" and accepts donations via Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, and PayPal under Monique’s name.2025 Fall Youth SportsENROLL TODAY!ymcasatx.org/youthsportsYMCA OF GREATER SAN ANTONIOFranklin Park SonterraWe are here for you!SONTERRASchedule your tour today! Call Tina for more information.(210) 404-144418323 Sonterra Place San Antonio, TX 78258Independent and Assisted Living ApartmentsLearn more about us at...franklinpark.org #10445814www.stoneoakhighlights.comJuly 2025