Santa pet photos raise funds for county’s spay and neuter program

Looking at a row of empty kennels at the Pinal County Animal Care and Control Center, Ruth Stalter says it’s nice to see vacancies at the shelter, especially during the holidays.

Stalter, the Director of Animal Care and Control (PCACC), says the empty kennels are due to the increase in adoptions of homeless dogs at the shelter.

“We have a wonderful arrangement with Petsmart at the new Promenade Mall in Casa Grande,” Stalter said. “They have been such a supporter of helping us find good homes for these pets. This has been a partnership that has helped to save lives and provide people with a companion animal.”

According to Stalter, Petsmart has graciously donated space on the weekends for PCACC to show off their adoptable animals. The PCACC pet adoption crew is at the Casa Grande Petsmart every Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

During the holiday season Petsmart and PCACC will join forces to take pet pictures with Santa. A majority of the proceeds from the pictures will go the Spay and Neuter Program.

“Petsmart asked us if we would be interested in such a venture and we thought it would be a chance to raise some needed money for our Spay and Neuter Program,” Stalter explained. The pictures will be $8.95 with $5 of the proceeds being given back to the program.”

PCACC officials, along with Santa and a helpful elf will be at the Casa Grande Petsmart for pet pictures on the following Saturdays and Sundays: December 8, 9, 15 and 16 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“People really love seeing their pets with Santa, and we’ll be there with a digital camera and printer so they can get their prints within minutes of the picture being taken,” Stalter said.

Looking at recent adoption numbers, Stalter said the increased figures are good news going into the holiday season.

“We are thankful we have a good partner like Petsmart to help us showcase our adoptable animals. When you see a pet going to a good home that is the best present you can ask for.”