Family Pet Hospital collects truckloads of food for Pets of the Homeless - Edmond Sun

Family Pet Hospital collects truckloads of food for Pets of the Homeless - Edmond Sun

Family Pet Hospital, a partner of Pets of the Homeless, successfully collected more than 3,300 lbs. of pet food this holiday season. Family Pet Hospital works with the local Pet Food Pantry of Oklahoma City, which will distribute the donations to the poor and homeless who have pets.

The Pets of the Homeless program is an ongoing national effort to regularly supply donated pet food to local people who cannot afford to properly provide for their pets.

Over the course of a year, millions of people become homeless with numbers rising. Approximately 80 percent of people who experience homelessness are homeless for a short period of time and usually need help finding housing or a rent subsidy. But unfortunately, for those with pets it becomes more difficult, forcing them to choose between their pet and a roof over their head. Surprisingly, most choose to stay on the streets with their pets for longer periods of time. Their pets are their comfort, provide an emotional bond of loyalty, and are nonjudgmental.

It is estimated that one in four homeless and disadvantaged people have a pet. Pets of the homeless do not choose their guardians. A difference can be made to aid these pets. More than 14,200 pets have been medically treated through the assistance of Pets of the Homeless, and 444 tons of pet food collected and distributed. There are more than 430 Donation Sites nationwide.

Pets of the Homeless has provided more than $449,000 in veterinary care to pets of the homeless. Family Pet Hospital accepts donations of pet food and supplies at 2228 NW 164th St. in Edmond. They accept pet food donations year-round and donations are accepted Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

For more information call 405-216-5200 or call Pets of the Homeless at 775-841-7463.