Rich Schmitt/Staff Photographer
JENNIKA INGRAM | Reporter
For the second year in a row, a Pacific Palisades-based donation drive will benefit the West Los Angeles and South LA animal shelters beginning on January 20.
The Donation Drive for Shelter Animals is organized by Nancy Jackson, and hosted by Paws N’ Claws Grooming Salon and Alicia’s Place Childcare.
Jackson created the pet donation drive after reading a post online about animals suffering on a freezing cold day. When Jackson posted that she wanted to do something to help, she was amazed by the response.
“Last year, we received thousands of dollars worth of items with great community support,” Jackson explained to the Palisadian-Post. “Everyone stepped up last year, and hopefully, they will again this year.”
The donation drive was meant to last one week, but continued for three because donations kept pouring in.
“The goal for 2020 is that we want everyone who walks into the shelter to see every animal having something nice to rest on and a toy,” Jackson shared.
Jackson explained that the animals do not care whether the items are new or used—they just want a comfortable blanket or a bed.
Leslie Buck, who runs Paws N’ Claws, and Alicia Albek, who owns Alicia’s Place, house the donations until they can be transported to the shelters.
“I love seeing the donations fill the shop,” Buck said.
Donations are primarily for dogs and cats, and will benefit the smaller West LA shelter and the larger South LA shelter.
“Although the South LA Shelter has a greater need, it receives fewer donations due to its location,” Jackson shared. “We are always seeking more volunteer drivers to help us drop off the many donations.”
Many popular items used by pet owners are welcome, as well as some more specialized items. Shelters need fleece/small blankets, wet/dry food, leashes, toys, and other items pet owners may be holding onto but no longer need.
“A highly desired, coveted item is the Kuranda Bed, which is an elevated bed for pets,” Jackson said.
Some other sought after items are KMR Milk Replacer (powder form) for kittens and Martingale collars for dogs.
“Our foster program is in need of supplies, especially during kitten season,” Haydee Mancera ACT, lifesaving liaison, foster program coordinator at the West LA Shelter, wrote in an email.
If a community member wants to donate specifically for the kitten foster program or for their items to go to medical use, Mancera suggested adding a note on their donation.
Donations can be dropped off at Paws N’ Claws Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For alternative times, contact Albek at 310-420-2562.
For a complete list of items to donate, email Jackson at athlete1@msn.com.
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