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Giving companion animals a second chance at life is what the just concluded PETCO Foundation "Spring-a-Pet" fundraising campaign is all about. The effort raised almost $950,000 for about 500 local animal shelters from across the nation.

The PETCO Foundation is a non-profit organization established by PETCO in 1999. It sponsors events that give people a chance to help animals in their community. Immediately following the success of the "Spring-a-Pet" fundraiser is the fourth annual National Pet Adoption Days campaign this Saturday and Sunday, April 21 and 22. While there are ongoing adoption efforts underway at PETCO stores, this weekend campaign is an annual springtime event also dedicated to helping "Spring-a-Pet" and calling attention to the fact that animal shelters are a wonderful place from which to adopt a companion animal.

Although the "Spring-a-Pet" money raised for welfare organizations will be used in a number of different ways, the concentration is on adoption. Based on average costs for taking care of animals, including food, space and vaccines, this year's "Spring-a-Pet" revenue will give more than 15,000 companion animals a chance for adoption.

"Spring-a-Pet" allowed PETCO store customers to make a $1, $5, $10 or $20 donation in exchange for a paper cutout bunny that was displayed in the store. Proceeds will go to more than 500 local animal welfare organizations who work with PETCO stores on an ongoing basis and who provide direct assistance to companion animals through programs like spay and neuter services and mobile adoption clinics.

"The overwhelming response from our customers enables our charitable partners to build new shelters, implement animal assistance programs for the handicapped and feed animals, who would have otherwise gone hungry," said Lance Schwimmer, a PETCO Regional Manager whose region topped the nation in "Spring-a-Pet" revenue. "I commend all our great associates, who are animal lovers themselves and truly believe in what the PETCO Foundation is doing. We also thank all our customers who responded to our plea for their support of local animal shelters."

According to PETCO Foundation Director, Paul Jolly, the "Spring-a-Pet" fundraiser received such a large response because it is focused on "helping local small groups, the ones actually touching and providing assistance to the animals.

PETCO, based in San Diego, is a leading pet specialty retailer with more than 530 stores in 41 states and the District of Columbia.

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. Since inception, more than $4.5 million have been raised through a variety of fundraising efforts.

SOURCE: PETCO Animal Supplies Inc.