TAYLOR, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — PAWsitively for the Animals has a mission to keep pets with their owners, especially in times of financial struggle.
On Memorial Day, while many were out enjoying the sunny weather, Kevin Young and his wife were spending hours preparing to distribute dog and cat food to over 100 families on Wednesday.
“I spent three years in the Navy. Other than my service to this country, there’s nothing I have been more proud of than what we have been able to do here,” said Young.
A decade ago, Kevin Young and other former shelter workers searched for a way to keep pets with their owners.
“We started off very small, working out of our home in the basement for the first seven years, and then we received this space,” said Young.
That space is a portion of S&S Pools and Spa in Taylor- where owner Anthony Shamonski allows the organization to operate free of charge.
“If somebody is coming here and they have three cats and four dogs, we want to make sure they have enough food to feed them,” explained Young.
The non-profit also receives donations from pet food distributors like Blue Buffalo, although donations are mostly dog food.
“Our cat ratio is about six to one, cats to dogs. 95% of the cat food we purchase. Donations are very few and far between,” expressed Young.
Despite a large variety of food brands, Young stresses the importance of staying true to the animal’s diet when requesting pet food.
“When you change a diet and you go to a much richer food, that may not work well with your pet. They may have an upset stomach or diarrhea,” said Young.
Those looking to request pet food must fill out an online application, that goes to a board for review.
“Please, be as honest and be as thorough o that application as you can. That application tells us everything and we can then better serve your needs,” said Young.
The organization’s next fundraiser is Pints for Paws, a pet friendly event on Sunday June 1st at Susquehanna Brewing Company.
Monetary and food donations are always accepted during S&S Pools and Spa operating hours. To make a donation outside of those hours or arrange a donation pickup, call 570-947-1393.
