BONITA SPRINGS, Fla. — A Southwest Florida animal rescue is running a pet food drive this weekend, to help pet owners in need.
Love is Fur Ever Dog Rescue is known for taking in dogs others would usually turn away; dogs like Bradley Cooper, who are in need of medical attention, or dogs like Gabriel, who was tortured and abused. During this global Coronavirus pandemic, the rescue realized a different need.
"We know a lot of people are helping the humans, but the humans need help with their beloved pets," Victoria Frazier, the Founder of Love is Fur Ever Dog Rescue, said.
The rescue is partnering up with Rural King in Bonita Springs for the pet food drive. They've provide some food, and now they're turning to the community.
"We have asked our supporters to donate either dog food or cat food, and also monetary donations, so we can purchase this kibble for these animals, and we’re going to hand it out to families in need," she said.
Their goal is to raise $10,000 dollars worth of food. Frazier said that will feed 400 animals for about two months each.
"As of now, we can feed 200 animals. So hopefully with the help of the community, we can feed more," she said.
She said it will be a curbside food drive, so they can continue to practice social distancing.
"They're going to get a piece of paper that will tell us what exactly it is they need for their family. whether they have a dog in their household -- large breed or small -- and if they have any cats. Then, that way, we can provide them with one bag of dog food and one bag of cat food. And they’ll just drive up, we’ll drop it off, and then they can go about their ways," Frazier said.
Frazier said she understands COVID-19 has led to a lot of stress for a lot of people. Some have lost their jobs and are financially struggling, and they want to help them and their pets.
"This kind of takes the stress off of 'How can I afford dog food?' 'I can’t afford dog food.' 'I can’t afford cat food.' And then they have to surrender their beloved pet to the shelter. We want to try to avoid that during this time, because it’s just extra stress added onto them," she said.
The pet food drive is on Sunday from 12-3 PM at Advanced Veterinary in Bonita Springs, located at 28380 Old 41 Rd Suite 8, Bonita Springs, FL 34135. In addition to pet food, Dr. Thomas Jackson, the veterinarian, is donating one free dose of topical flea and tick prevention, and a $100 coupon for a pet exam, for up to four pets per family.
The rescue is taking donations through Friday, May 15th. If you're interested in donating, you can drop off dog or cat food donations to the clinic, or send them through the mail. The rescue is also accepting monetary donations through Facebook or Paypal.
