About Us
Creating a compassionate world where every animal is safe, loved, and given a second chance at life
The purpose of Paws for Life Animal League is a strictly volunteer organization dedicated to manage the Riverton Animal Adoption Center in Riverton, Wyoming. We are committed to rescuing the mistreated, saving the injured, loving the abandoned and being their voice at the end.

Paws For Life Animal League:
A Journey of Hope and Rescue
In 2004, in the heart of Riverton, Wyoming, a small group of passionate animal lovers came together with a dream—one that would forever change the lives of countless abandoned and stray animals. What began as a simple yet powerful mission to rescue, care for, and rehome animals in Fremont County soon grew into something much larger than anyone had imagined. This was the birth of Paws For Life Animal League, an organization built on love, compassion, and unwavering dedication.
At the time, animal shelters in rural areas like Fremont County faced overwhelming challenges. Stray animals roamed the streets, left to fend for themselves. Many were hungry, scared, or injured, longing for a second chance at life. But resources were scarce, and without intervention, their futures were uncertain. Seeing this desperate need, our founders refused to turn away. Instead, they rolled up their sleeves and took action.
With determination in their hearts and a commitment to every life that crossed their path, they started small—rescuing dogs and cats in need, providing them with medical care, warm beds, and, most importantly, love. At first, the shelter was modest, relying on volunteers and the generosity of the community. Every adoption was a victory, every wagging tail a sign of hope.
As word spread about Paws For Life, so did our mission. What started as a local effort soon grew into a network of partnerships, reaching beyond Riverton and Fremont County to collaborate with rescues across Wyoming and beyond. We knew that no animal should be left behind simply because of geographical boundaries. Whether it was a lost puppy found on a desolate road or a senior cat surrendered due to unfortunate circumstances, we welcomed them all with open arms.
Today, Paws For Life Animal League is more than just a shelter—it is a beacon of hope for animals in need. Our work doesn’t stop at rescue and adoption. We advocate for responsible pet ownership, provide spay and neuter of rescued animals to reduce overpopulation, and educate our community about the importance of kindness toward animals. We believe that every animal deserves a loving home, and we strive every day to make that vision a reality.
But we couldn’t do it alone. The heart of our organization lies in the support of our volunteers, donors, adopters, and fellow rescues who share our passion. It is through this collective effort that we have saved and rehomed thousands of animals, giving them the lives they were always meant to have.
Our journey is far from over. As long as there are animals in need, Paws For Life Animal League will be here—rescuing, healing, and finding families for those who need them most. Because every pawprint matters. Every life is precious. And together, we can create a world where no animal is left behind.
Join us. Support us. Be a part of our mission. Because love saves lives.
Meet Our Board

Lonnie Slack
Board Director
“Dogs never bite me. Just humans"
-Marilyn Monroe

Ashley Aragon
Board Vice Director
"A single meow melts away a thousand worries"
-Unknown

Ashley Solan
Board Treasurer
"To love a dog is to open your heart without reservation, to witness pure joy in the simplest moments, and to understand that loyalty and forgiveness are gifts we rarely deserve."
-Unknown

Devon Kellerhall
Board Secretary
“When I needed a hand
I found your paw"
-Unknown
​

Pamela Canham
Board Member
“An animal’s eyes have the power to speak a great language.”
–Martin Buber

Nita Kehoe
Board Member
​"A mutt is couture, it's the only one like it in the world, made especially for you"
-Unknown

Kaia Leseberg
Board Member
“Adopting one dog won't change the world, but for that dog, the world will change forever"
-Unknown
Meet Our Staff

Whitney Fontes
Shelter Manager
“Rescued does not mean damaged. It means they have been let down by humans”
-Butch McCartney

Tessa Sullivan
Shelter Administrative assistant
“The average dog is a nicer person than the average person”
–Andy Rooney

Carey Sullivan
Shelter Kennel Staff Manger
"Animals are not property or "things" but rather living organisms, subjects of a life, who are worthy of our compassion, respect, friendship, and support."
-Marc Beckoff
