We’ve all heard stories
of rescued dogs going on to rescue their humans right back (either literally or
figuratively). They give us so much and ask for nothing but love in return. It’s
therefore disheartening to hear of these "angels in fur" being surrendered in increasing numbers.

 

According to a recently
released Petfinder.com survey, 43% of animal shelters and rescue groups across
the Gulf Coast (i.e., Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas) are
all seeing an increase in surrendered pets resulting from that oil spill
disaster. 85% of them say that the primary factors are general financial
difficulty or job loss.

 

But here’s the good news… to help shelters bear the increased financial cost and burden to their facilities the Petfinder
Foundation is offering $150,000 in grants (in partnership with Merial’s "Paws
to Save Pets" and The
Animal Rescue Site’s Gifts That Give MoreTM program) by providing $100,000 in operating budget grants to shelters
located within 30 miles of the coast, and $50,000 to Petfinder member shelters
or rescue groups who have the capacity to transport or accept 10 or more
homeless animals from impacted areas. Each group who qualifies will receive
$1,000 for every 10 pets they transport or accept. BTW, the Petfinder Foundation
has already helped St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center in New Jersey transport
nearly 100 pets from the Gulf to areas that have more capacity and foster care.

 

If
you would like to help or would like additional information please contact Katy
Layton at 917-595-3057 or klayton@cooperkatz.com.