Thousands of four-legged needy at Southern California animal rescues and shelters will be treated this December to the donated gifts of hundreds if not thousands of people who are touched by "Operation Santa Paws."
Justin Rudd and the nonprofit, 501c3 Community Action Team (CAT), is encouraging the public to again donate Santa Paws, which supports abandoned pets in the care of animal shelters and rescues.
The 12th annual Operation Santa Paws, which was started in 2001 by Rudd and has since spread to 25 states, is a canine and feline toy/treat drive aimed at offering some comfort and fun to the shelter animals this holiday season.
Rudd is asking animal lovers to buy new dog and cat toys, treats and other supplies that will be delivered to shelters in Long Beach, Orange and Seal Beach.
Rudd said items like durable dog toys, dog and cat food, kennel cleaning supplies, bathing soaps and dog leashes are among the most wanted items from shelters/
Note: Rawhide items, pig ears and stuffed animals are not usually accepted by the shelters because of safety and housekeeping concerns.
Those who wish to volunteer to help deliver the items can meet at the following times and locations:
- 11:15 a.m.: Long Beach Animal Care Services, 7700 E. Spring St. @ 605 Fwy., Long Beach, 90815; 562.570.PETS.
- Noon: - Long Beach spcaLA, 7700 E. Spring St. @ 605 Fwy., Long Beach, 90815; 562.570.SPCA.
- 1:30 p.m.: Seal Beach Animal Care Center, 1700 Adolfo Lopez Dr., Seal Beach, 90740, 562.430.4993.
- 3 p.m.: Orange County Animal Care Services, 561 The City Dr., Orange, 92868; 714.935.6848.
Itchy Paw Walks, Petsitting & Training will also pick up donations from homes in Long Beach and Seal Beach. To arrange a pickup, donors are asked to leave a essage with address and times the items will be available at 562-618-3310 or itchypawpets@gmail.com.
A list of drop-box locations in participating cities and states can be found by clicking here. Donors can leave items in the collection boxes until noon on Dec. 21.
Tax-deductible donations can also be mailed to Santa Paws, 5209 E. The Toledo #1, Long Beach, 90803 or sent via Paypal to Justin@JustinRudd.com.
