BOYLE HEIGHTS -A Westside organization known for aiding underserved communities helped hundreds of pets receive the care they needed this weekend, ensuring they stay out of shelters and in loving homes.
Over 300 pet owners and their cherished animals gathered at Aliso Pico Recreation Center for the Free Pet Wellness Day. The event was organized by the Michelson Found Animals Foundation’s Better Neighbor Project (BNP) in collaboration with Senator Maria Elena Durazo and Assemblymember Miguel Santiago.
Brett Yates, CEO of Michelson Found Animals, expressed his organization’s dedication to the community, saying, “We want pets to be with their families and stay on the couch with them—with their people. Anything these pets need—we’re trying to provide that for the community.” He praised his team and the numerous volunteers for their tireless efforts in orchestrating the event, which also aimed to alleviate the difficult decisions pet owners face during financial hardships.
Pet owners benefited from a range of essential services including microchipping, vaccinations, flea treatments, and nail trimming at the event. Additionally, pet supplies such as ID tags, collars, leashes, and food were distributed freely, ensuring that every pet’s basic needs were adequately met.
Pet Wellness Day also played a crucial role in providing spaying and neutering services, which have become prohibitively expensive for many pet owners. By subsidizing these costs, Yates noted that the initiative not only prevents unwanted animal reproduction but also significantly helps in reducing shelter overcrowding.
The day was filled with moments of learning and sharing, as pet owners were also provided with educational resources to help maintain their pets’ health at home. The atmosphere was buoyant with wagging tails and expressions of gratitude, highlighting the community’s deep appreciation for the support and commitment shown by the organizers and volunteers. “Our goal is to ensure that all pets, regardless of the financial status of their owners, have access to the care and joy they deserve,” said Victoria Piar, the program manager for BNP, who underscored the importance of keeping pets with their families.
“People traveled for hours and waited in long lines to receive these services. This turnout underscores the significant role pets play in their families,” noted Piar.
Since its inception in 2020, BNP has positively impacted over 100,000 pets, strengthening the bond between them and their families amidst economic challenges.
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