As Canadians look forward to spring, there is no better way to brighten the winter months than welcoming new love. PetSmart Charities of Canada National Adoption Week takes place February 28 – March 6, 2022.
During these special weeks, PetSmart Charities of Canada invites hundreds of local animal welfare organizations to bring adoptable pets into PetSmart stores across the country.
Since 1999, more than 350 thousand pets have been adopted through PetSmart Charities of Canada. Over the past decade, there has been a steady increase in the save rate in animals shelters across Canada. Still, it’s estimated that one hundred thousand pets find themselves in shelters each year, in need of loving homes to do what they do best – love people.
The bond between pets and people continues to influence health and wellness. Today, nearly 60% of Canadian homes include pets, and 88% of pet parents consider them important members of the family. The benefits of adopting pets include:
- Pets give unconditional love and companionship.
- Interacting with pets reduces feelings of stress and isolation.
- Giving a home to a pet in need lends purpose in life during significant changes such as retirement.
- Caring for pets teaches values such as responsibility and compassion to children and youth.
- Playing with pets increases movement and activity and can encourage pet parents to spend more time outdoors during colder months.
“Pets love us like no one else,” said Aimee Gilbreath, President of PetSmart Charities of Canada. “And even though Canadians are more in love with their pets than ever, shelters across the country are still full, and many struggle with staffing shortages. National Adoption Week is a great time to connect with our animal welfare partners who’ll help you make the perfect match. Think of it as your way of giving back – and there is no better return on that investment!”
Maze was one such kitten in need of a home and people to love. CARMA (Cat Rescue Maritimes) in Fredericton, New Brunswick was contacted about a kitten who was born with a deformity that left her without a tail, unsteady on her feet and unable to use a litter box. But that didn’t stop CARMA from getting Maze the love and care she needed to live a happy, full life. Maze found her home with two loving parents who had previously fostered two adult cats and five kittens for CARMA, and with special needs cats of their own, they were the perfect fit.
Those who aren’t ready to adopt a pet can still help pets in need by making a financial donation online at PetSmartCharities.ca.
PetSmart Charities of Canada’s National Adoption Week Details
February 28 – March 6: Hundreds of animal welfare organizations will bring a host of adoptable shelter pets, including cats, kittens, dogs, puppies, and various small pets into nearly every PetSmart store across Canada.
Locations: Nearly every PetSmart location across Canada. Visit PetSmart.ca to find a store near you.
SOURCE PetSmart Canada