Bend Spay-Neuter holds doggie coat drive
Bend Spay and Neuter Project’s fifth annual Doggie Coat Drive is in full swing! This drive is completely volunteer-driven and works to provide coats, sweaters and booties for dogs belonging to people who are homeless or displaced in Central Oregon.
Dog coats and bedding is then distributed through local non-profit agencies that serve individuals who are homeless or at risk for homelessness. The Doggie Coat Drive has distributed over 600 coats to dogs and cats in need over the past 5 years.
Recently a veteran named Jennifer, who lives in her car with her two dogs, stopped in to BSNP in need of warm coats for them.
“Because of the drive, we were able to give both of her dogs brand new, water-resistant coats. Jennifer reported that her dog Angel loves her coat so much that she refuses to take it off, even when she sleeps!” says BSNP Executive Director Megan Wellinghoff. “Helping people like Jennifer is what makes this drive so special.”
“The greatest need by far is for durable and water resistant coats for medium and large size dogs. Some owners want to double-up the coats, so that means we need twice as many” says lead volunteer Tracy Marsh.
New or gently used coats, sweaters and booties for cats or dogs may be dropped off at Bend Veterinary Clinic, Blue Sky Veterinary Clinic, both Bend Pet Express locations, and at Bend Spay and Neuter Project through the end of January. Warm bedding will also be accepted.
Bend Spay and Neuter Project provides affordable, preventative veterinary care to at risk cats and dogs in order to make Central Oregon a more humane community. To donate or volunteer, please visit their website at www.bendsnip.org or call 541-617-1010.
