Pet Help Initiative Seeks Funds to Keep Animals Safe Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Humane Society of the Tennessee Valley today issued an emergency appeal for monetary donations to keep pets safe, healthy and in their homes amid the COVID-19 crisis. Pet Help, an initiative of Humane Society of the Tennessee Valley aimed at keeping people and pets together in their homes, is receiving a heightened number of requests. There is an immediate need for pet food, cat litter, flea and tick medicine, emergency medical care for current shelter pets and other needs focused on pet wellness retention. The need stems from the increasing number of people facing economic hardship due to COVID-19 related job loss. Relying solely on donations and grant funding, Humane Society of the Tennessee Valley needs community support now more than ever.

“With adoptions down and shelters full, our goal is to prevent anyone from surrendering their pet due to financial distress,” explained Constance Paras, executive director of Humane Society of the Tennessee Valley. “We are able to aid in many ways including our pet food pantry, and temporarily fostering pets of essential workers or those testing positive for COVID-19. “Our pet fostering initiative is vital to people who need temporary foster homes for their pets,” said Paras.

In order to adhere to stay at home and social distancing guidelines, Humane Society of the Tennessee Valley prefers monetary donations be made online at https://bit.ly/2RnDKBR  or mailed to:

Humane Society of the Tennessee Valley

Attn: COVID-19 Pet Help Fund

6717 Kingston Pike

Knoxville, TN 37919

“We’re certainly aware that needs are far and wide right now,” noted Paras. “We respect that human needs are most important, but if you can help keep an animal safe and in their home during this time, every dollar goes a long way.”