FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 27, 2014

Seattle Humane Society is celebrating the 25th anniversary of Pet Project, which provides food and primary veterinary care to more than 200 pets belonging to people disabled by HIV/AIDS. The program matches clients with volunteers who deliver monthly pet food and supplies, and holds bi-monthly veterinary clinics so that pets can get annual exams, vaccinations, flea medicines and dental cleanings.  The goal is to keep people and pets together when the comfort of a pet is needed most. All services and supplies are donated or purchased with donated funds.

“This is a fantastic service – for people like me, it puts our minds at ease, because we don’t have the exorbitant funds for vet fees," said Russell, a client since 1995 who relies on the program to care for his beloved dog, Delores. “Having a pet brings me companionship...and Delores helps me get outside of myself. I have to take her out, walk her, and feed her, and she brings socialization to my life. I’d be lost without her, even though she has me wrapped around her paw.”

During Seattle Humane's annual fundraiser in May, Tuxes & Tails, animal lovers came together to raise more than $570,000 for the shelter’s community outreach programs serving clients like Russell, who depend on the Pet Project program and Pet Food Bank. The funds will also allow the shelter to expand its services to include low-income cancer patients being treated at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.

“It’s been our mission to give people and their pets the chance they deserve to stay together," said Seattle Humane CEO David Loewe. "Now, thanks to the generous support of our donors who have helped to fund this program, we can ensure they will not be forced to give up their pets when they need them most."