With this important grant, we will enhance our advocacy and outreach programs, focusing on significant issues in the retail pet trade industry.
We are thrilled and deeply grateful to announce that we have received a generous grant from the New York Community Trust (NYCT)! This support is invaluable to our mission, and we extend our heartfelt appreciation to NYCT for believing in our cause and helping us continue our critical work for animals.
NYCT has a long-standing reputation for enhancing the well-being of communities in New York City through its philanthropic efforts. Its commitment to supporting initiatives that drive positive change aligns perfectly with our mission to create a better world for animals. We are honored to be among the recipients of its grants and excited about the opportunities this funding opens up for us.
With this important grant, we will work with our partner, Voters for Animal Rights (VFAR), to enhance our advocacy and outreach programs, focusing on significant issues in the retail pet trade industry. This funding will help us collect data, develop new educational materials, support community-based campaigns, and strengthen our efforts to end the sale of animals in pet stores. We are eager to achieve great work with these funds and make a lasting impact for animals.
The momentum for banning retail pet sales is growing, and recent legislative successes highlight the effectiveness of these efforts. New York City’s ban on the retail sale of guinea pigs has already led to a 30% decrease in guinea pig intakes at the city’s municipal animal shelter, demonstrating the significant impact of this legislation. Similarly, Arlington, Massachusetts has recently banned the sale of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fishes (!) in pet stores. These victories, along with others in places like Allentown, PA, and Washington, DC, show the progress we are making together.
Pet stores and animal mills breed abuse. In mills, animals are confined to small, filthy cages with little to no access to proper veterinary care, socialization, or adequate nutrition. Animal deaths are considered a part of business. Putting profit before animals leads to severe neglect and suffering. In pet stores, animals continue to endure inadequate living conditions, lack of medical attention, and high stress levels. Many investigations, including my own, have revealed heartbreaking stories of cruelty and neglect, highlighting the urgent need to protect these vulnerable beings.
Everyone has the power to create meaningful change for animals exploited in the retail pet industry. That’s why World Animal Protection developed this fantastic toolkit. By following these guidelines, anyone can become a changemaker in their own community.
Thank you once again to NYCT for your incredible support. We are excited to continue this journey with you and our community, making positive strides for animals.
Together, we can create a world where animals are treated with the respect and compassion they deserve.