Petco Foundation Joins BOBS from Sketchers in Awarding $860,000 in Holiday Grants

This Giving Tuesday, the Petco Foundation, in partnership with BOBS from Skechers, has awarded $860,000 in Holiday Wishes grant awards to animal welfare organizations across the country. Thousands of adopters nationwide submitted stories about how their pets changed their lives and 50 of the best stories were selected, awarding lifesaving funds ranging from $5,000 up to $100,000 for the organization that made their adoption match possible.

“Animal welfare organizations work tirelessly to save pet lives every day, and we’re proud to surprise them at the holidays with grant investments to support their lifesaving work,” said Petco Foundation President, Susanne Kogut. “These stories highlight how the love of an adopted pet changes so many lives in different ways, especially during these challenging times. This Giving Tuesday, we hope these stories motivate others to adopt a pet and to give back to hardworking organizations in their communities.”

This year’s challenges demonstrate the importance of pets and how their bond helps change our lives for the better. According to the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), 72 percent of pet owners say that spending time with their pet is helping reduce stress and improving wellbeing during the pandemic.

Throughout December, winning adopters and organizations will be surprised with their grant amounts during virtual celebrations. Adopters will also receive a prize pack including a Petco gift card and BOBS from Skechers shoes.

Animal lovers can help make even more Holiday Wishes come true by voting for their favorite Holiday Wishes story in the People’s Choice competition. The top five stories with the most votes will earn additional grant funding for animal welfare organizations from $5,000 to $25,000. Voting closes Dec. 16, noon CST. People’s Choice winners will be announced before Christmas.