The Pandemic Pet Protectors Feature

Did you know that OC Animal Care launched a program to assist struggling pet owners? The Family Fur-st Drive-Thru Pet Food Pantry was launched in June of 2020 with the goal of providing access to vital resources like pet food, kitty litter and basic supplies to keep pets in their homes with their families during these uniquely difficult times. The pantry assists owners of dogs, cats, rabbits, mini mammals, and birds.

OC Animal Care has partnered with the Animal Assistance League of Orange County, the SoCal Animal Response Team and the Shamrock Rescue Foundation to host the pet pantry from 8 to 10 a.m. the second Saturday of every month. Families seeking assistance can find the pantry in the main parking lot of OC Animal Care Headquarters, 1630 Victory Road, Tustin.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, in-person donations are not accepted. There has, however, been a fantastic response from the community in terms of virtual donations through online platforms. Those who wish to donate can do so through the Animal Assistance league’s Amazon Wishlist. The list is maintained with food and products needed to help fulfil the pantry’s mission. Currently, there is an urgent need for dry cat food, canned dog food and wet puppy food. You can view and donate from the Amazon Wishlist at: https://amzn.to/3dC3PHw

After 10 months of operation, the pet food pantry has distributed 47,000 pounds of pet food to the community and assisted more than 4,300 pets with no signs of stopping. It is the goal of OC Animal Care to continue to operate the pantry for as long as there is food available and a remaining need in the community.

The shelter is open by appointment only for essential services, including pet adoption. For more information about the Family Fur-st Pet Food Pantry, other pet programs, or upcoming events, please visit OC Animal Care’s website at:

http://ocpetinfo.com

TOP LEFT: Food is sorted by animal and displayed on tables for patrons of the Pet Pantry. TOP RIGHT: Dog food of varying brands are stacked and waiting for distribution. BOTTOM LEFT: The Pet Pantry is seen in the background while a sign in the foreground directs traffic to it. BOTTOM RIGHT: Pet Pantry staff help load donations into a vehicle in front of OC Animal Care Headquarters in Tustin.