Staff Report
Let’s not forget the pets.
A group of animal welfare activists in Monterey County is organizing a pet food drive in conjunction with local animal rescue groups.
“We want to keep pets with their owners during this trying time and hope that no pet will go hungry if we all work together,” says organizer Rhonda Somerton. Somerton has been highly active in cruelty prevention and efforts to persuade government agencies to step up their efforts in this arena.
There are food dropoff locations, but to limit the possibilities of spreading the virus, the group is encouraging the use of gift cards.
Organizers are working with South County Animal Rescue (SCAR) and Golden Oldies Cat Rescue and are grateful to Peace of Mind Dog Rescue, which is leading the effort to gather and transmit pet store gift cards or other virtual contributions. SCAR virtual donations can be made at: www.scar.pet or on their Facebook page.
People can also contribute food, money or gift cards designated for pet food to the Monterey County Food Bank, 353 W. Rossi St, Salinas, 93907. Virtual gift cards from Chewy.com or Petsmart.com can be delivered electronically to www.foodbankformontereycounty.org
For distribution in the South County, food or medicine can be taken or mailed to Los Coches Animal Hospital, 311 Nestles Road, Soledad.
Somerton said the group is also seeking donors willing to fund and run a voucher program for farm animals that are pets, that is not meant for consumption. More information about that is available from Somerton at 394-2344.
Others involved in the effort include co-organizer Sandy Cortez, 596-2530; Carla Stewart of South County Animal Rescue at 970-6860; and Golden Oldies Cat Rescue at 200-9700.
Have something to say about this story? Send us a letter.
GET OUR FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
