Posted: March 28, 2009, 5 a.m. EDT
With the arrival of spring comes the launch of the Petco Foundation’s “Spring a Pet” campaign, an annual fundraiser that supports animal rescues nationwide.
From now through Thursday, April 30, people have a chance to make an impact on the lives of the 5 to 7 million animals that enter the shelter system every year, according to Petco Foundation. “Spring a Pet” offers the public a chance to support these animal welfare groups and their efforts to get homeless pets adopted into permanent homes.
To participate, people can buy donation cards in amounts of $5, $10, and $20; round up their purchase at Petco registers nationwide to donate the difference; or make an online gift. In previous years, the campaign has raised more than $1 million.
This year, said spokeswoman Kalen Smith, “we’re going for $3 million.” She added that this time of year is a good time to raise money for animal shelters because of kitten season, which starts in spring and swamps animal shelters with homeless litters.
The weakened economy makes this a growing concern for the Foundation. “Spring a Pet” donations will fund programs such as spay-neuter clinics as well as initiatives to find homes for thousands of animals.
To add extra support to the fundraiser, the Foundation has again teamed with the makers of Pedigree dog food who – for every purchase of $25 or more of Pedigree products at Petco stores or on Petco.com – will donate $1 to the Petco Foundation.