ATASCADERO — Woods Humane Society has launched a month-long fundraising campaign featuring a $10,000 donation match challenge, aiming to amplify efforts in aiding homeless pets as the demand for shelter space surges.

The organization’s CEO, Emily L’Heureux, addressed the current challenges faced by the animal welfare sector, citing the enduring impacts of the pandemic, veterinary shortages, and economic inflation. The announcement comes in the wake of a remarkable increase in surrendered pets and transport requests, coupled with rising operational costs. Recognizing these challenges, Woods Humane Society is grateful for the support of The Marianne and Stacy Cocks Fund, administered by the Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County, which has pledged to match every donation made in August.

L’Heureux emphasized the importance of community support in confronting these challenges and revealed the organization’s determination to elevate their assistance to homeless pets despite financial hurdles. In the past year, Woods Humane Society successfully placed more than 2,700 animals in loving homes and aims to expand that number to 3,000 this year.

The average direct cost for the care of an animal at Woods, encompassing procedures such as spaying/neutering, vaccinations, microchipping, licensing, and parasite treatment, stands at $800. The expenses escalate for pets requiring specialized training, medical attention, or extended stays.

Throughout August, the community has an extraordinary chance to double the impact of their contributions, ensuring that two homeless dogs or cats receive the necessary veterinary care, shelter, nourishment, and adoption services for a chance at a better life.

For those wishing to support the match challenge fundraiser, donations can be made at WoodsHumane.org. To explore adoptable animals, visit WoodsHumane.org/Adoptions. Woods Humane Society is open daily from 12 to 5 p.m., with adoption hours between 12 to 4 p.m. 

For additional information, please visit WoodsHumane.org or contact (805) 543-9316. The organization operates at two locations: 875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo, and 2300 Ramona Rd., Atascadero.