Animal Humane Society has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) as part of its national ASPCA Relief and Recovery Initiative, which includes providing a minimum of $2 million in critical funding for animal welfare organizations whose programs, operations, or fundraising capabilities have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. The grant will help AHS fund essential lifesaving services such as adoption programs and veterinary care, which are proving to be crucial animal welfare services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Pets are family, and we’ve seen firsthand how they are helping people cope with the stress and anxiety of the pandemic,” said AHS President and Chief Executive Officer Janelle Dixon. “This grant ensures that we can help more people find pets and care for their pets through adoption and affordable veterinary services.”

In addition to the unprecedented challenges the COVID-19 pandemic has created for people, it is also putting animals at risk by straining essential owner and shelter resources,” said ASPCA President and CEO Matt Bershadker. “Considering the vital role pets play in our lives — especially in times of crisis and stress — it’s extremely important to safeguard their welfare as much as we can, and we are grateful to the animal welfare community for stepping up, thinking creatively and courageously, and forging new paths to meet this need. Through the ASPCA Relief & Recovery Initiative, we are helping animals stay healthy and safe as we weather this crisis together.”

Half of the grant will help AHS transport animals facing euthanasia in Southern states to Minnesota, where they can be adopted into loving homes. The other half will support our low-cost Veterinary Centers, which will allow expansion of services to more pet owners who can’t afford traditional healthcare for their pets. The grant comes at a critical time, as demand for services has increased.