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The PETCO Foundation's annual Tree of Hope fundraiser, which ended December 24, surpassed $2.1 million in donations.

Customers visiting one of PETCO's more than 760 stores purchased card ornaments for $1, $5, $10 or $20. Visitors could also choose from red or blue "Making a Difference" wristbands or a 2006 PETCO Foundation calendar loaded with coupons -- with all funds going toward the Tree of Hope. Anyone donating $20 or more received a PETCO Foundation hand-painted, globe ornament.

The Tree of Hope fundraiser brings the total amount the Foundation raised in 2005 to $6.5 million, compared to $5.7 million in 2004.

"I am very proud that we raised 14% more money in 2005 than in 2004," said Paul Jolly, Foundation Director and Vice President. "There are thousands of animals across the country that will benefit from our store visitors' generosity. We're deeply grateful to be able to organize and distribute this collection effort each year on behalf of all of those animals who depend on us for their well-being."

In addition to the annual campaigns, including Tree of Hope, Spring a Pet and Round Up, the Foundation also collected money to support animal welfare organizations working in the Gulf Coast region following several hurricanes this past year. Nearly $1 million was raised in those efforts.

PETCO is a leading specialty retailer of premium pet food, supplies and services with a commitment to quality animal care and education. PETCO's strategy is to offer its customers a complete assortment of pet-related products and services at competitive prices, with superior levels of customer service at convenient locations, by hiring pet lovers and training them to become counselors to our pet-loving customers. PETCO operates more than 760 neighborhood stores in 49 states and the District of Columbia, as well as a leading destination for on-line pet food and supplies at www.PETCO.com.

The PETCO Foundation, PETCO's non-profit organization, has raised more than $28 million since its inception in 1999. More than 3,300 non-profit grassroots animal welfare organizations from around the nation receive Foundation support. Through the PETCO Foundation, PETCO endeavors to be a community leader in promoting the welfare of companion animals and celebrating the human-animal bond.

SOURCE: PETCO Foundation