The day before Valentine’s Day
in 2017, a new partnership was forged that has so far facilitated more than 4,500 loving relationships. That’s the day when Anderson Humane opened the doors of their first-ever satellite adoption center at the Pet Supplies Plus in North Aurora. That first day they had approximately 15 dogs and 25 cats available for adoption in the 1,500-square-foot center adjacent to the Pet Supplies Plus store.
“We’re excited to partner with such a reputable shelter like Anderson,” said George Lennon, the franchise owner of the North Aurora Pet Supplies Plus store (along with ten others in the area), at the time of the opening. “We share the mutual goal of helping pets find loving homes to live long, happy, and healthy lives.”
Beth Foster, now President and CEO of Anderson Humane, was also excited about the expansion. “We greatly appreciate our partnership with Pet Supplies Plus, which has given us the chance to serve and reach more potential adopters in our community,” she said. “The North Aurora satellite adoption center is an opportunity to save more pets’ lives.”
Perhaps most remarkable is that Pet Supplies Plus has never charged Anderson Humane rent for the adoption center space. “It was clear to me from the very beginning that one of George’s primary motivations is his passion for helping animals and the people who love them,” said Beth. “Fortunately, that’s Anderson Humane’s passion (and mission) too! We could not be more proud of the connections we’ve made at our North Aurora Adoption Center, none of which would be possible without the support of George and Pet Supplies Plus.”
While Anderson Humane employees and volunteers staff the North Aurora adoption center and care for all the adoptable dogs and cats, the Pet Supplies Plus team is readily available to help new pet owners find all the products they need for their new furry family members. Adopters at this location get the benefit of both teams’ expertise and love for pets as well as their people.
North Aurora Mayor Mark Gaffino recognized the five-year anniversary of this unique partnership in an official proclamation, noting that the adoption center “would not be what it is today” without the rent-free support of Pet Supplies Plus and calling out Anderson Humane’s programs to help veterans and seniors enjoy the benefits of the human-animal connection. He also cited the “positive differences they have made in the North Aurora community.”
The two organizations will mark their five-year anniversary with a free celebration event with more than 75 dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens available for adoption. As with all animals available at Anderson Humane, all the pets are spayed or neutered and microchipped. And all adoptive parents will receive support from the Anderson Humane and Pet Supplies Plus teams.
The special anniversary adoption event will be held July 17 at the North Aurora Pet Supplies Plus (at the corner of Randall Rd. and Oak St.) from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. More information here.