The BISSELL Pet Foundation was established in 2011 by lifelong animal lover and BISSELL, Inc. Director of Corporate Affairs Cathy Bissell. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the foundation will be giving back to its community with their Empty the Shelters event on May 7 (that’s today!).
More than 20 shelters and rescue organizations across Michigan will participate in the event, with more than 1,000 adoptable dogs and cats available. The BISSELL Pet Foundation will cover the adoption fee for each pet adopted from a participating shelter on May 7 – a savings of about $150 for dogs, and $60 for cats. The only cost to the new pawrents will be a $7 – $12 dog license.
BFP is also providing each adopter with a complimentary AdoptBox™. This bonus gift is chock full of goodies including toys and treats for either dog or cat, a collar, ID tag, selection of BISSELL cleaning products, coupons and 30 days of free pet insurance. A booklet explaining the best pet care practices in regards to feeding, vet visits, and preventative medicine is also included for new adopters.
In Michigan, approximately 40,000 dogs and cats are euthanized in shelters each year for lack of an adoptive home. The ASPCA estimates that 5 out of 10 shelter dogs will face this fate, as well as 7 out of 10 cats.
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Cathy Bissell told CBS Detroit:
Our hope is that hundreds of homeless pets will sleep well knowing the comfort of a new home and a loving family…Our goal for “Empty the Shelters” day is to encourage people considering a pet to choose adoption first. We’re hoping that the AdoptBox, with its stock of go-to supplies and information, will help new pet parents choose the right products and make good choices for their pet’s future.
For a list of participating shelters and rescues across the state, click here. If now is not the right time to welcome a new furry friend into your home, you can still support the cause.
Beginning on May 7 the AdoptBoxes will be available for purchase for $54.99 on the BISSELL Pet Foundation website. 100% of the proceeds of each box go towards BPF’s mission “until every pet has a home.”
H/T to CBS Detroit
Featured Image via Friends of Summit County Animal Control
