Posted: January 8, 2010, 3 a.m. EST
Two of the country’s largest pet-store chains — Petco and Petsmart — have reached milestones in their efforts to help animals in need. Through its annual Tree of Hope fundraiser, Petco raised a record $4 million for animal welfare efforts. Meanwhile, Petsmart is celebrating its 4 millionth pet adoption.
The Tree of Hope fundraiser, which was held during the holiday season in more than 1,000 Petco stores across the U.S., invited customers to make a donation to help fund grants to animal shelters and rescue groups. On Jan. 6, the San Diego-based retailer reported that campaign raised $4 million, up nearly 30 percent from 2008’s event.
“Donations from thousands of Petco customers will enable the Petco Foundation to help animal shelters and rescue groups worldwide in caring for thousands of homeless pets,” said Paul Jolly, the foundation’s executive director. “Despite the tough economy, our customers continue to give hope and help us address the growing needs of our animal welfare partners.”
Half of the funds raised during the campaign will go to animal welfare organizations in the areas where the money was donated. The Petco Foundation will use the other half for regional programs and relief efforts.
In addition, Iams donated $1 to the Petco Foundation for every bag of Iams cat or dog food sold at Petco stores during the Iams Home 4 the Holidays adoption drive. Iams ended up donating a total of $100,000, according to Petco spokeswoman Brooke Simon.
Petsmart of Phoenix has also reached new heights in its efforts to help homeless pets. Chloe, a collie-mix, is the 4 millionth pet to be adopted from a Petsmart Charities Adoption Center in the U.S.
The Jancarek family of Randolph, N.J., adopted Chloe at a Petsmart store in nearby Rockaway, N.J. Chloe was a rescue from Eleventh Hour Rescue, an all-volunteer, nonprofit agency that takes in dogs who are slated for euthanasia.