DENVER (KDVR) — When a house fire or other disaster happens, the American Red Cross responds with aid for the people forced out of their homes.
But what about their pets? A new partnership offers the animals help as well.
Back in 2013, the Colorado Pet Pantry opened its doors to provide pet food and other supplies to people who didn’t want to give up their animals because of financial struggles. Since then, they’ve aided thousands in many different scenarios.
Although it was years ago, the thought of the Marshall Fire still lingers in Eileen Lambert’s mind.
“When people were fleeing the house, they grabbed the dog, they grabbed the cat, maybe the collar and leash,” said Lambert, the Colorado Pet Pantry’s founder. “But the dog bed did not make the cut.”
That’s why she and the Pantry gave out nearly 2,000 dog and cat beds in the aftermath, that memory now serving as inspiration for a new partnership with the American Red Cross.
“We want to be ready and we want to help,” said Lambert.
Pet Comfort Kits are the result of that collaboration. Essentially, they’re pre-made goodie bags filled with everything an animal could need that their owners were forced to leave behind. The bags are aimed at making the sudden transition out of their home after a disaster a little easier.
“A brush, some treats, Kong toys,” said Lambert. “They don’t know what’s happening. All they know is they’re now not in their home.”
The Red Cross then takes those bags to disaster scenes and Red Cross Mass Care and Logistic Manager Diana Dalager says it didn’t take long for them to be necessary.
“Within 72 hours of them making these pet comfort kits, Red Cross responded to a house fire where they distributed two comfort kits to the client who had two pets,” said Dalager.
The Pet Pantry relies entirely on donations to fill the bags, but right now, some of their warehouse shelves sit empty.
“Companies are tightening their belts and people are tightening their belts,” said Lambert.
Both she and Dalager hope to keep the supplies coming in during the warmer months.
“This is not only welcoming, but it alleviates the stress and gives them some kind of comfort,” said Dalager.
The Colorado Pet Pantry accepts new or gently used toys, beds, collars, and even bags of food that have already been opened if you’re able to tape them back shut. There are 175 drop-off locations around the state, which you can find a list of here.
