By Stephanie Scott, SPCA International staff
We are excited to announce that our Operation Military Pets program has now assisted almost 300 U.S. military families! In the past two months alone we have helped 28 struggling military families keep their beloved furry family members by distributing over $25,000 in grants. More families are coming to us for help than ever before and our distribution rates are increasing to keep up with the demand.
In 2013 Operation Military Pets was launched to address a widespread, but little known, problem. When military families are ordered to a new base in the U.S. or around the world, moving bills pile up. The military pays for many moving costs, but they don’t help our military families relocate their family pets. The cost for pet transportation can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars. All over the U.S. and the world shelters near military bases report high surrender rates because many military families can’t afford to relocate their dog or cat. Operation Military Pets was launched to keep those families together and therefore, reduce surrender rates near military bases.
Since its launch, word about the Operation Military Pets program has spread and many families apply for financial aid from the program each month, and especially in May when a majority of permanent change of duty station (PCS) orders are sent to military service members. This incredible program helps an average of 12 military families a month and those families are so thankful.
“We received our check for $1,000 and it's been a godsend. I can't thank your organization enough…God bless you.” – Sheri & Fredrick Daliry
“We have received the funds. Thank you so much for the financial help you guys have provided us so that our wonderful dog can continue to be apart of our family.” – Steven Wilson
“Thank you very much for approving the grant! This will help us out more than you know! Thank you for what you do for military families!” – Chris and Lindsay Phillips
It’s our honor to serve U.S. military families who sacrifice so much for our country. The last thing they should have to sacrifice is the love for and from their family companion animal. Stay tuned for news of our 300th grant coming very soon!