The Prince William SPCA and Action in Community Through Service (ACTS) are working together to collect pet food for animals in need for the holiday season.
Throughout October, volunteers have been collecting cat and dog food donations – they’re still accepting donations – which will be provided to families in need through ACTS’ Operation Turkey program in November.
“Around the holidays, we all want to include our pets in the celebrations. When we share our food, that is a bad idea because many of the dishes we enjoy can be either dangerous or unhealthy for cats and dogs. Rich gravy, turkey bones and sweets shouldn’t be shared with pets. We know families need alternatives and that is where this program comes in to help,” stated Prince William SPCA President Melissa Korzuch in a release, continuing, “In addition to providing a healthy meal for a cat or dog, this program also aims to educate the public about food dangers for pets. We hope families can avoid unnecessary trips to the veterinarian during what should be joyous times.”
Last year, the group was able to collected 250 bags of pet food and the goal this year is to collect 500 bags.
More on how you can help, from a release:
The public is asked to help by making cash or food donations. Items accepted include: small bags of cat and dog food, can/pouch food, treats and new small pet supplies (shampoo, catnip toys, dog toys, etc.). All donations need to be new and unopened. Items not accepted include opened or expired food of any kind or used items. Due to space capacity, the organizers prefer that no large bags of food over 5 lbs.
Scout troops are helping by working with local businesses to provide collection boxes.
Those locations include:
Comics and Gaming, 7556 Gardner Park Drive, Gainesville (Through October 27); and Betty & Marie’s Ice Cream Shop in Manassas Park (through October 25) and Caring Hands Animal Hospital, 12733 Braemar Village Plaza, Bristow. In addition, a final drop off location has been set for Saturday, October 28 from 1 PM – 2 PM at the Prince William County Animal Shelter. Donors can drop off food in the shelter parking lot at the PWSPCA’s P.A.W. Express Mobile Adoption Van. Scouts who have been hosting donation drives can also pick up their fun patches at the same time. Organizers stressed that no items should be dropped off at the shelter except for during this designated time (1-2 PM) and date (10/28) due to the limited space at the shelter. Volunteers will then bag up the donated items and meet up with ACTS for distribution through the Operation Turkey Program in November.
The pet food drive runs until October 28. The public is encouraged to help by making a donation.
