news releases

Hope is an important word for all animal kind, including companion animals.

During this holiday season approximately 530 PETCO stores from across the nation are joining the PETCO Foundation, a non-profit organization, to raise money for hundreds of animal welfare organizations that provide hope and a second chance to companion pets in need.

From now through December 24, 2000, the "Tree of Hope" campaign will encourage pet loving people to donate $1, $5, $10 or $15. All donors will receive a paper ornament that can be signed and displayed in the store or taken home as a reminder of their donation. Customers making a donation of $15 or more will receive their choice of a keepsake dog or cat angel ornament while supplies last. These ornaments were created to provide a visual celebration of the human/animal bond and are exclusive to the PETCO Foundation.

"Tree of Hope" was established last year by the PETCO Foundation. Last year's effort raised $576,000 for more than 200 local animal welfare groups.

Where the Money Goes. Proceeds from the fundraiser will be given to local animal welfare groups that provide services like adoptions and spay and neuter programs in their communities. Local stores determine which animal welfare organizations in their communities to support and all proceeds raised in a local area stay in that community. Last year's effort supported an array of local programs, like $10,000 donated to Windy City PAWS in Chicago for an outreach program that provides support for handicapped or disadvantaged individuals so they can adequately care for their companion animals. In San Francisco, approximately $10,000 was given to the Animal Rescue Foundation. That money was used to provide veterinary care to homeless and abused animals. In St. Louis, more than $6,000 was donated to Spotsavers, a group that rescues and finds loving homes for Dalmatians. The SPCA of Texas in Dallas received more than $11,000 for use in helping build a Medical Annex Treatment Ward to enable more animals to receive medical treatment and seek shelter while they await loving homes.

PETCO targets grassroots organizations that provide direct care and support to companion animals as recipients of funds from "Tree of Hope" and its other fundraisers.

"We're pleased to offer our customers and all pet loving people an opportunity to help their local animal welfare groups," said Paul Jolly, the PETCO Foundation's Director. "Please join us in helping trim a 'Tree of Hope' for all the animals. Log on to http://www.petco.com/ to find the PETCO store nearest you so you can make a donation. Photos of the angel ornaments that are available to those who make a $15 or more donation are online as well," Jolly added.

The PETCO Foundation was established in February 1999 to support community organizations and efforts that enhance the lives of companion animals while strengthening the bond between people and pets. Thus far more than $2 million has been raised through a variety of Foundation fundraising efforts in communities where PETCO has stores.

SOURCE: PETCO Foundation