America is responding in the wake of the recent tragedies, and not just to the human victims. People across the nation are aiding companion animals affected by the tragedy in the PETCO Foundation's 'Round Up America' campaign, where more than $625,000 has already been raised.
Thus far more than $100,000 in pet food and supplies from PETCO and its vendor partners has been donated to those animal welfare groups that have been called upon to respond.
Today, the PETCO Foundation is announcing the first of what will be many donations from the 'Round Up America' fundraising campaign. The generosity of PETCO's customers both in-store and online at http://www.petco.com/ is making it possible for these contributions.
"The success of 'Round Up America' has been overwhelming," states Paul Jolly, Director of the PETCO Foundation. "The outpouring of support from our customer friends, associates, and vendors has touched many hearts," Jolly added.
Two groups are receiving checks for a total of $150,000. Those groups are the Suffolk County NY SPCA and the ASPCA.
Suffolk County NY SPCA is receiving $100,000. This group has been working at "ground zero" since day one. Not only have they provided a mobile medical surgical unit to support rescue dogs, but have also worked within the restricted zone to rescue stranded animals some of which have gone without food or water since September 11.
"Our mission is far from over," said Herbert "Skip" Kellner, Director and Counsel for the Suffolk County NY SPCA. "We continue to count on the ongoing support of PETCO and its loyal and generous customers as we go forward with our work to find homes for the orphaned pets, and deliver our assistance to the K-9 units, the City of New York, and in whatever way possible this great nation in which we live," Kellner added.
In addition, the ASPCA will receive $50,000. This group has offered medical aid from their mobile veterinary unit and has assisted in the rescue approximately 500 pets.
"This most generous donation to 'The ASPCA Animal Disaster Relief Fund' will enable us to provide continued medical care for pets affected by this tragedy. In addition, the fund will cover expenses incurred for pet rescue and medical supplies in the days following the tragedy. We are grateful to our friends at PETCO for supporting our mission to save lives and reunite pet owners with their four-legged family members during this most difficult time," stated Dr. Larry Hawk, ASPCA President and CEO.
The overall scope of what is needed to help animals affected is still being determined. Originally animal welfare groups providing support estimated between 2,000 and 4,000 companion animals may have been left homeless. Now, as evacuated areas become more accessible, it appears the actual number will be much lower. On the other hand, budgets for K-9 search and rescue teams from across the nation have been stretched to the limit in response to sending dogs and their handlers to assist in rescue efforts.
In addition to providing financial support to animal welfare groups finding new homes for the orphaned pets, the PETCO Foundation Disaster Relief Fund will make contributions to search and rescue programs a top priority when distributing funds.
The PETCO Foundation has formed a committee composed of animal care professionals to review and approve applications for support.
PETCO's 'Round Up America' campaign will be accepting donations at PETCO stores and at http://www.petco.com/ through Sunday, September 30. Donations may also be sent directly to the PETCO Foundation at 7262 N. Rosemead Blvd., San Gabriel, CA 91795. The PETCO Foundation is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization dedicated to helping animal welfare groups that promote the human/animal bond. Since inception in 1999, the Foundation has donated more than $5.2 million to animal welfare groups.
SOURCE: The PETCO Foundation
Contact: Paul Jolly, Director of PETCO Foundation, +1-626-287-0952; or
Don Cowan, Director of Communications of PETCO, +1-858-657-2086; or Herbert
(Skip) Kellner of Suffolk County SPCA, +1-631-360-2175; or ASPCA, Media
Relations, +1-212-876-7700 x 4655
Website: http://www.petco.com/
