TAMPA BAY – A new grant from PetSmart Charities will allow Rescue Pets of Florida to help more pets throughout the Tampa Bay area get healthy and adoption-ready.
The grant will support National Adoption Week events at local PetSmart stores taking place March 23 to 29.
Millions of pets find themselves in U.S. shelters each year, adding strain to many local shelters coping with strained resources. Funds from PetSmart Charities support Rescue Pets of Florida and the community by providing medical care in the form of spay/neuter, microchipping, vaccines and care of sick animals, as well as supplies, food and education to make in-home fostering more accessible for members of the community.
The grant also helps to fund Rescue Pets of Florida’s Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return program, which provides medical care and sterilization to feral/community cats in the community. The program’s goal is to reduce the number of homeless pets, including kittens that are at a higher risk of disease and death when living outdoors.
“Our animal welfare partners in local communities are determined to keep pace with the need and deserve support,” said Aimee Gilbreath, president of PetSmart Charities. “We’re proud to work alongside Rescue Pets of Florida and appreciate the critical steps they take to advocate for the animals that come through their doors in need of love, safety, care and nutrition.”
PetSmart Charities National Adoption Week is a special time during the year. Stores will host adoptable pets to meet and cuddle in spacious areas. Staff and volunteers are ready to make introductions and answer questions. Potential pet parents can also learn about the products and services they’ll need for the best possible start with their new pets.
Adoptable pets are available at the following times and PetSmart locations throughout the year, with National Adoption Week events occurring March 23 to 29:
- Spring Hill: 1345 Wendy Court | Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Valrico: 3313 Lithia Pinecrest Road | Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Wesley Chapel: 6001 Wesley Grove Blvd. | Saturday and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m.
- St. Petersburg: 7777 Doctor Martin Luther King Junior St. N. | Saturday and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m.
- Plant City: 211 W. Alexander St., Suite A | Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 4 p.m.
On the web: rescuepetsofflorida.org
