KC PAWS NEWS and Updates

The cat’s out of the bag… and our rescue dogs are chasing it to Raytown! 🐾

After many years in Waldo, we’re excited (and emotional) to officially share that KC PAWS is preparing for a big move.

We are in the final stages of completing the purchase of a new home for KC PAWS in Raytown. The building is being purchased by the Paul Chaney Memorial Foundation specifically for KC PAWS, creating a more cost-effective and stable future for the rescue. This new chapter also brings a leadership transition, with Michelle Lascon stepping into the role of Executive Director after serving as Director of Operations, while founder Sandi Outlaw steps back from day-to-day management. Sandi’s vision, dedication, and sacrifice built KC PAWS into what it is today, and her legacy will continue to guide the future of this organization.

Our current building has held so many memories — countless second chances, heartbreaks, healing moments, and happy endings. It’s where so many dogs began their journey toward a better life, and where our community showed up time and time again to make that possible.

As KC PAWS continues to grow, so do the needs of the animals we serve. This move marks the beginning of a new chapter — one that will allow us to continue evolving, expanding, and strengthening our mission for years to come.

To our adopters, fosters, volunteers, donors, clients, and supporters: thank you. You helped build KC PAWS into what it is today, and we can’t wait to bring you with us into what’s next.

Waldo will always be part of our story. Raytown is where the next chapter begins. ❤️

We’ll be sharing our full press release soon with more details on what this move means for KC PAWS and the future ahead.

Kansas City Protective Animal Welfare Society

Move to Raytown – Frequently Asked Questions

Why is KC PAWS moving?

KC PAWS has operated in Waldo since 2007 and has outgrown its current building. Rising maintenance costs, increasing rent, and limited space have made it difficult to sustain and expand long-term rescue and boarding operations.This move provides KC PAWS with a more stable, cost-effective home and creates new opportunities for growth, expanded services, and stronger community partnerships.

Where is the new facility?

KC PAWS’ new home is located at:6204 Arlington Avenue
Raytown, MissouriThe property previously operated as a canine facility and is already well suited for rescue, boarding, and canine care.

Who purchased the building for KC PAWS?

The building was purchased specifically for KC PAWS by the Paul Chaney Memorial Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.The Foundation shares KC PAWS’ commitment to saving dogs and is invested in the organization’s long-term success. This partnership provides KC PAWS with a permanent home, greater autonomy, and the stability needed to continue its lifesaving mission for years to come.Learn more at:
https://www.paulchaneyfitnessfundraiser.com/

When is the move happening?

KC PAWS will continue operating in Waldo through September 19, 2026.The organization will temporarily close beginning September 19 to complete the transition and will reopen to clients at the new Raytown facility on October 5, 2026.

Why Raytown?

Raytown offered the opportunity to move into an existing facility already designed for canine care, making the transition more practical and efficient.The location remains convenient for supporters, volunteers, and clients—just 15 minutes from Waldo.The move also creates an exciting opportunity to build a collaborative partnership with Raytown Animal Services, increasing adoption opportunities and helping more dogs in need.

Who will lead KC PAWS going forward?

Founder Sandi Outlaw, whose vision and leadership built KC PAWS into what it is today, will step back from day-to-day operations.Sandi will continue serving as an advocate for KC PAWS and overseeing the organization’s involvement with the Goods Program through Greater Good Charities.Longtime manager Michelle Lascon has been promoted to Executive Director and will lead KC PAWS into its next chapter, building on its strong foundation while expanding programs, partnerships, and services.

What are the benefits of the new facility?

The new Raytown location offers significant improvements for both rescue and boarding dogs, including:More space and a more functional layoutFour outdoor play yards for exercise, enrichment, and trainingQuieter decompression spaces for shy, recovering, or behaviorally sensitive dogsOn-site staff living quarters for increased supervision and careGreater flexibility for future growth and expanded servicesThis facility strengthens KC PAWS’ ability to care for dogs both physically and emotionally.

How will this improve care for dogs?

With additional outdoor space and multiple play yards, dogs will spend significantly less time kenneled and more time engaging in exercise, socialization, training, and enrichment.The facility also allows for:More individualized careBetter rehabilitation opportunitiesSafer decompression spacesImproved emotional and behavioral supportRescue dogs, foster dogs, and boarding guests will all benefit from a healthier, more enriching environment.

Will this help KC PAWS rescue more dogs?

Yes.One of the primary goals of this move is to expand KC PAWS’ long-term impact. The new facility provides greater flexibility for rescue operations, rehabilitation, foster support, training, and community outreach.The improved layout and increased space will help create better outcomes for more dogs.

Will boarding continue?

Yes.Boarding will remain an important service at KC PAWS. Revenue from boarding directly supports the rescue mission by helping fund medical care, rehabilitation, food, housing, and lifesaving rescue efforts.Reservations for boarding at the new facility are now being accepted.

Will the Foster Boarding Program continue?

Yes.KC PAWS will continue offering its Foster Boarding Program, which provides affordable boarding support for foster-based rescue organizations when foster homes are unavailable.This program reflects KC PAWS’ commitment to supporting not only its own dogs, but the rescue community as a whole.Learn more at:
https://www.kcpaws.org/general-2

What about daycare?

Public doggy daycare will be discontinued at the new facility.This change allows KC PAWS to dedicate more space, staffing, and resources to rescue operations, rehabilitation, foster support, and adoptions.Daycare will remain available exclusively for active KC PAWS foster families.Dogs staying for boarding or grooming will still enjoy supervised playgroups and socialization.

Will pricing change?

At this time, there are no major pricing changes planned.If any changes occur in the future, clients will be notified well in advance.The new facility also creates opportunities for expanded:Grooming servicesTraining programsEducational programming

What community partnerships are planned?

Community partnerships are a major part of KC PAWS’ future.KC PAWS is committed to expanding outreach efforts, educating the public on responsible dog ownership, and working alongside local organizations to address issues like overpopulation, irresponsible breeding, and lack of access to resources.KC PAWS is already building a partnership with Raytown Animal Control to create stronger local support systems and improve adoption outcomes.

What is the Goods Program?

KC PAWS will continue serving as the Kansas City ambassador for the Goods Program, a pet and human food assistance initiative through Greater Good Charities.Founder Sandi Outlaw will continue overseeing KC PAWS’ involvement in this program.Learn more at:
https://greatergood.org/goods

How can the community help?

Community support will be critical during this transition. Here’s how you can help:Foster
One of the most impactful ways to help is by fostering—even temporarily—through September. Every foster placement means one less dog to move and helps ease the transition.Volunteer
Volunteers will be needed to help prepare the new facility and assist with move-related projects.Donate
Donations will help cover moving expenses and supplies needed to prepare the new building.Use Our Services
Continue supporting KC PAWS through boarding and grooming services once we reopen.Spread the Word
Share updates, encourage fostering and adoption, and help spread awareness about the move.For foster information, call: 816-361-7829

Will there be an open house?

Yes!KC PAWS plans to host an open house at the new Raytown facility for foster families, clients, volunteers, supporters, and community leaders.More details will be announced once plans are finalized.