PetSmart commits up to $1 million to support animal welfare across North America

BURLINGTON, ON, March 19, 2020 /CNW/ – 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, people will be less likely to consider adoption while it is expected that more pet parents will be forced to surrender pets due to the rapidly changing situation. As a result, the number of homeless pets is expected to increase.

As the leading funder of animal welfare, PetSmart Charities of Canada and PetSmart Charities have committed up to $1 million to support pets and people affected by COVID-19. These funds will be used to support animal shelters and organizations that are committed to helping impacted people keep and care for their pets. This support will be available across all Canadian provinces and in the areas with the highest number of reported cases in the U.S.

“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 and PetSmart Charities of Canada. “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.”

PetSmart® and PetSmart Charities of Canada are committed to supporting local communities in this time of extraordinary need.  PetSmart® continues to operate as an essential retail provider of critical products while keeping the health and safety of associates, customers and their pets a top priority.

To learn more about PetSmart Charities of Canada and its emergency relief support visit www.petsmartcharities.ca.

SOURCE PetSmart Charities of Canada