Coronavirus (COVID-19) has affected humans by closing workplaces and schools, but animal shelters are also feeling the impact as fewer people come in to adopt pets and many shelters are forced to close to the public altogether. According to some animal welfare organizations, it is likely fewer people will be considering adoption and more pet parents will have to surrender pets due to health or economic hardship. As a result, the number of homeless pets is expected to increase.
To help address these issues, PetSmart Charities, the leading funder of animal welfare, has committed up to $1 million to support pets and people affected by COVID-19.
These funds will support both the animal shelters caring for pets and organizations that are helping impacted people keep and care for their pets in the areas with the highest number of reported cases in the U.S. and Canada. These affected areas include portions of California, Washington, Massachusetts, New York and all provinces across Canada.
“As an organization dedicated to supporting pets and the people who love them, PetSmart Charities remains committed to the health and welfare of pets during this unprecedented time, and our hearts go out to those impacted by COVID-19,” said Chris McCurdy, interim president at PetSmart Charities. “We pledge to remain nimble as the need grows during this pandemic. Whether you are a shelter overwhelmed with the intake of homeless pets or an organization that provides resources to pet parents concerned about how they will care for their pets due to quarantine, we’re here for you.”
Both PetSmart and PetSmart Charities are committed to supporting local communities in this time of extraordinary need. As an essential retailer, PetSmart stores across North America will remain open to provide indispensable pet products like food, but also services and veterinary care, while keeping health and safety top of mind for pets, customers and associates.
To learn more about PetSmart Charities and its emergency relief support visit www.petsmartcharities.org.
