In less than a year, the demand at Animal Humane’s Pet Food Bank has nearly tripled, and local pet supply store Long Leash on On Life has responded by making a major contribution this month, donating three tons of dog food to this vital community service.
“Every human deserves the love of a pet companion, regardless of income, age or personal circumstance. Pets connect with us in a unique human-animal bond; they provide meaningful enrichment as well as proven health benefits to their pet parents. For many people living alone , a pet may be their only consistent companion as well as their support system,” says Norm Shrout, co-owner of Long Leash On Life. “Since Animal Humane’s Pet Food Bank can help pets and their people stay together, we consider supporting these efforts a high priority.”
In January, 2014, Animal Humane’s Pet Food Bank served 544 pets, and 344 visitors. One year later, visits have nearly tripled, reaching approximately 1,000 visitors in a month and serving over 1,200 pets. Through 2014, 104,476 pounds of food were distributed over 7,193 individual visits.
“Our Pet Food Bank is generously supported by donations provided by our community, and these can fluctuate over time. This incredible donation from Long Leash On Life will help our capacity as we explore new ways of meeting this community need,” says Peggy Weigle, executive director. “Animal Humane’s Pet Food Bank provides temporary support for families in need, and prevents pets currently in loving homes from entering Albuquerque shelters.”
Local business support is vital to the success of Animal Humane’s programs and services. According to the 2013 Indie Impact Study Series performed by Keep It Querque, in Albuquerque, a local business recirculates a generous 39% of their revenue into the local economy in the form of paychecks, products and services purchased locally, profits, and charitable giving, versus only 13.6% by national chains.
Long Leash On Life annually supports Animal Humane and many other local animal welfare organizations in substantial ways, consistently providing charitable contributions at a proportionately high ratio to business size. “We are committed to helping these homeless animals, and give whenever we can,” states Ken Wormser. This giving includes nearly $60,000 to Animal Humane over the last five years as well as the Long Leash On Life To the Rescue! Massive Yard Sale & Pet Adoption Event, which last year raised over $30,000 for homeless dogs and cats at benefitting 12 local rescue organizations.
About Long Leash on On Life
Owned by Norm Shrout and Ken Wormser, Long Leash On Life is a health food and supply store for dogs and cats that provides the healthiest collection of all-natural pet foods, supplements & accessories, a pet wash and unique gifts for pet lovers. Their mission is to improve the quality of cats’ and dogs’ lives through proper nutrition, positive training and a lifetime of meaningful enrichment, with a special focus on the well-being of local rescue pets. Their store is located at 9800 Montgomery Blvd NE at Eubank. www.LongLeashOnLife.com
About Animal Humane New Mexico
Animal Humane is New Mexico’s leading private nonprofit animal welfare organization whose mission is to support and improve the lives of New Mexico’s dogs and cats through sheltering, adoptions, humane education and veterinary services. Animal Humane cares for and re-homes over 4,000 homeless pets from across the state each year and provides many resources for pets and pet owners in New Mexico. www.AnimalHumaneNM.org