To this day, I still can’t believe that we’re all going through a global pandemic. I started working from home on March 13th and wonder what life back in the office will look it. I’m grateful I still have a job and have the ability to work from home. Other’s aren’t as fortunate. Pets of owners who have been affected by COVID-19 need our help more than ever. Some have lost their jobs and are struggling to feed their pets.
I could feel their stress and it hurts me to think that someone’s pet will be left hungry or even surrendered to a shelter because their owners aren’t able to take care of them anymore. I wanted to help, so I did some research and found a local non-profit pet pantry organization called “Paw it Forward” located in Valley Stream, NY (Long Island). They are helping local shelters and anyone in the community struggling to feed their pets.
Paw it Forward of Valley Stream is seeking donations such as cat and dog food, wet or dry, and pet supplies such as cat litter, carrying crates and pet beds. Gatsby and I went shopping at our local pet store and made a delivery to Paw it Forward. I hope this will help ease some stress away for those in need during this difficult time.
How you can help:
- If you live in Long Island, NY, and would like to donate to Paw it Forward, you can call (516) 491-8781 or search “Paw it Forward” on Facebook to schedule a donation drop-off.
- Call your local shelter and see if they are in need of pet food and supplies.
- Make a donation to ASPCA. ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) has partnered up with Food Bank for NYC to help pet owners gain access to pet food and vet care.
- Check on your senior neighbors. We all know that our seniors are more vulnerable to the virus. They may have pets and aren’t able to leave their homes in order to buy the necessities they need.
A little donation goes along away. If you are unable to donate, you can still help by spreading the word to friends and family who CAN. In these times of uncertainty, it’s important to spread kindness and help one another as much as we can.
He who feeds a hungry animal feeds his own soul.” – Charlie Chaplin
