PAWS At The Mall Closes This Month

Updated at 4:33 p.m.

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Just as news broke of Annapolis Mall's sale to a California firm, it was also revealed that the shopping center's animal shelter would be closing down.

PAWS at the Mall, an extension of the SPCA of Anne Arundel County, has operated at Annapolis Mall since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Now, it has until the end of the month to vacate its storefront at the mall, near 2170 Annapolis Mall Road.

"We know this news is heartbreaking for many members of our community because PAWS became so much more than a retail and adoption center," reads a release issued by the SPCA branch.

"It became a place where families made memories, children learned compassion, volunteers connected with the community, and thousands of animals found homes."

Related: Annapolis Mall Sold in Multimillion-Dollar Deal

Working With Macerich To Find New Location

While organizers did not initially offer specifics on the notice to vacate, an update on the matter has since been issued.

Macerich, who acquired the mall in a $272 million deal, says that while it did not file the termination notice, it is working with the SPCA to track down a new home for the group.

"Macerich values the important role the SPCA plays in the Annapolis community," Mackenzie Fontaine, the mall's general manager, said in a statement provided to Patch.

"Once we assumed ownership of the property and became aware of this unfortunate situation, we immediately began working with the SPCA to help save PAWS at the Mall and identify a long-term home for this vital community partner."

"Macerich believes our shopping centers serve as community cornerstones, and organizations like the SPCA are part of what makes Annapolis Mall so special," Fontaine said.

PAWS at the Mall also issued an update, confirming that it was in talks with Macerich "regarding a potential future location."

"We truly appreciate your patience, understanding, and continued support while we work through next steps," reads a post.

Closing Sale

Until a new site is confirmed, the focus remains on connecting with adopters and transferring pets to potential fosters or SPCA sites.

Since 2020, the site has helped facilitate the adoption of hundreds of animals, such as cats, guinea pigs, rats, rabbits, sugar gliders, ferrets and hedgehogs, among other pets.

The organization did announce that PAWS at the Mall would host a "closing blowout sale" to "offset the loss of critical funding and support."

Last-minute events planned for the month may include:

• Guinea pig and rabbit interaction events
• Educational outreach tables
• Small animal enrichment opportunities
• Family-friendly activities
• Adoption-focused weekends
• Special farewell events for the community

One of the most popular events hosted by PAWS at the Mall was the bedtime book buddies, where children would read to pets.

"Programs like this helped children build confidence, compassion, reading skills, and empathy while helping animals socialize and receive enrichment," the group said.

Such programs are unlikely to continue in the same capacity, depending on space and staffing needs.

Until May 31, residents are welcome to stop into the store from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Are you a local business owner? Post a business listing on Patch! It’s an easy way to reach a local audience and connect with customers close to home. Go here to get started today.