Arizona Animal Welfare League (AAWL) has received a new $50,000 Pet Transport grant from PetSmart Charities, the leading funder of animal welfare in North America.

“This grant will provide statewide transportation for animals that need rescuing from rural areas where resources are not as readily available,” said Judith Gardner, president and CEO of AAWL. “It will help us provide them with medical attention and a healthy environment until they find their new homes.”

In the last six months, AAWL has brought more than 1,100 animals from rural rescue facilities to Phoenix. In 2017, the shelter staff brought an average of 165 animals from these partners to Phoenix every month, sometimes driving as many as eight hours round trip for a rescue. 

“By providing grant funding to assist the Arizona Animal Welfare League, PetSmart Charities is helping to ensure that pets in the most rural and remote parts of the state of Arizona have the very best chance possible of making their way to a shelter where they can receive the veterinary care and support they need to prepare for adoption into a new forever home and family,” said Jenny Aho, regional relationship manager at PetSmart Charities.

Pet Transport is one of PetSmart Charities’ seven grant categories designed to provide opportunities for animal welfare organizations and non-profits to apply for funding support. Funding from PetSmart Charities can help cover the costs associated with pet transportation, veterinary and shelter care, and vehicle maintenance and modifications. With the help of its animal welfare partners, since 1994, PetSmart Charities has helped more than 8 million pets in need find forever homes.