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For Immediate Release 07/11/08

LCAS Animals Benefit as PETCO Customers and Pedigree Give Generously to Fundraiser

Contact: Tom Howard, Lane County Animal Services, 682-3646

PETCO customers are making a difference in the lives of animals in need at Lane County Animal Services (LCAS) after giving generously to the PETCO Foundation’s annual Spring A Pet fundraiser.

During the six-week campaign this spring, more than 900 PETCOs across the country collected donations on behalf of local animal shelters and thousands of pet parents visiting the stores gave to the cause. The makers of PEDIGREE dog food joined in, donating $50,000.

Together, the Spring A Pet campaign raised $1.95 million, with all donations staying in local communities. LCAS received $437 from the campaign.

LCAS partnered with the PETCO store at 1169 Valley River Drive in Eugene, which campaigned on behalf of the shelter and the animals it helps.

"In these tough economic times, our customers’ compassion and selfless giving are making a big difference for animal welfare groups such as LCAS," said Beth Mars, PETCO Foundation director of operations and development. "We appreciate our customers’ support so that local groups across the country can carry out the important work of helping animals."

Thanks to the Spring A Pet donation, LCAS will further its efforts to save every adoptable animal that comes to the shelter by providing needed medical treatments and vaccinations.

"We are very grateful to The PETCO Foundation and the pet parents who have made this donation to LCAS. The financial support through donations is essential in meeting our mission of Saving Adoptable Animals," said Tom Howard, LCAS supervisor.

LCAS is implementing many new programs that are essential to meet its mission of saving every adoptable animal that comes to the shelter. Some of these programs include hiring a certified vet tech to give vaccinations and examinations; purchasing of vaccinations and medications for the animals; and hiring an animal behavior and training coordinator. Both of these positions are extra help at this time. There are many more plans in the works.

"Even with the drastic budget cuts we are determined to continue our efforts to advance in the field of caring for the stray, abused, and neglected animals that live in Lane County," said Howard. "LCAS can’t do it without the support of the citizens of Lane County. Through their generous donations we will be able to continue to improve our ability to care for the animals that come to the shelter."

About PETCO and the PETCO Foundation
PETCO is a privately help specialty retailer that provides products, services and advice that make it easier for our customers to be great pet parents. PETCO operates more than 900 stores in 49 states and the District of Columbia, as well as a leading pet products and information destination at www.PETCO.com. Its nonprofit organization, the PETCO foundation, has raised more than $44 million since its inception in 1999 to help promote and improve the welfare of companion animals. In conjunction with the foundation, PETCO works with and supports more than 5,000 local animal welfare groups across the county to help find homes for nearly 300,000 adoptable animals every year.

PETCO encourages customers to consider adoption before the purchase of any companion animal – even if it’s one of the birds, reptiles, or small animals currently offered in PETCO stores. For more information on the PETCO Foundation or to locate a store near you, visit www.petco.com.

Amber Fossen
Public Information Officer
Lane County Government
125 E. Eighth Ave.
Eugene, Oregon 97401
(541) 682.3718
(541) 359.9143 (cell)

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