Yesterday, Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro and her Animal Control staff teamed up to provide free pet food for 159 animals during the Community Kickoff of the “Pawlidays.” Nearly 50 individuals turned out to the event at the County’s Animal Control facility in Akron to receive cat and dog food and cat litter.
“Several organizations throughout the community have teamed up to provide meals to residents in need during the holiday season. We want to make sure our pets have the same opportunity,” said County Executive Shapiro. “Our team braved the cold temperatures to make sure no pet goes hungry this holiday season!”
The pet food giveaway is part of the Pawlidays Adoption Event running now through Friday, December 30. Adoption costs are reduced to $28 for dogs (regularly $94) and $5 for cats (regularly $50). The animals are fully vetted, which includes bloodwork, flea treatments, intestinal de-worming, spay or neuter, and vaccinations, and ready to be taken home. Those who adopt a dog will also receive a 2022 Summit County Dog License included in the adoption cost.
The event was made possible by Animal Control’s new GOODS program, a partnership with Greater Goods Charities. The GOODS program provides pet supplies like food and litter to distribute to local rescues and pantries to stretch dollars and assist more pets and people. Animal Control is working with Peanut’s Pet Pantry to distribute the supplies, as well. More information on this program is available at: https://co.summitoh.net/pages/Greater-Good-Program.html.