Austin-based organization, New Hope Animal Rescue (NHAR), has been granted a $25,000 fund by PetSmart Charities. The grant is intended to aid the preparation of homeless cats and dogs in the state for adoption.
According to an NHAR press release, the organization collaborated with PetSmart Charities during National Adoption Week in March, bringing adoptable pets to four PetSmart locations across Texas.
"These funds are vital to bolstering our life-saving mission and amplifying pet adoptions as they support the enormous costs associated with preparing a pet for adoption, which includes spaying and neutering every single pet prior to adoption, wellness exams, vaccinations, diagnostic tests, medications, microchips, preventions and more," said Kelley Rice, founder and president of NHAR.
Heidi Marston, director of pet placement at PetSmart Charities also shared her thoughts on the situation. "Shelters across the U.S. are struggling to keep pace with the number of animals coming in and need support from their communities to bring pets and people together," she said in the release. She added that they were proud to support New Hope Animal Rescue's essential work in caring for animals in need of loving families.
As stated on NHAR’s website, this accredited 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization relies heavily on donations and grants to carry out its mission—saving dogs and cats at risk of euthanasia. It is not a shelter per se; instead it operates through a network of foster care providers and volunteers who look after animals until they find permanent homes. Additionally, it ensures any necessary medical care is provided before these pets are adopted.