Disaster Relief for Missouri Pets

The following was submitted by

Three local businesses are collecting donations to support the tornado relief effort in Missouri. Ciao! Bow Wow, the North Andover pet supply retailer, River Road Veterinary Hospital of Andover, and Beyond the Leash, professional dog training service of Boxford, are reaching out to concerned citizens and pet lovers to help victims of the disaster.

Donations of used blankets, sheets, towels, bedspreads, and comforters as well as money will be sent to the Humane Society of Missouri Sheltering Team, which operates an animal shelter at the Missouri Southern State University (MSSU).

"Our hearts go out to the victims of this tornado disaster," said Melanie LaRocca, owner of Ciao! Bow Wow. "This animal shelter at the MSSU allows displaced families to take their pets with them. This must be a big comfort to both the people and the pets under terrible circumstances. Our patrons in Massachusetts have big hearts and want to help."

"Persons being housed at the MSSU shelter will be able to place their pets at the animal facility on the campus," said Dr. Tracie Fountas of the River Road Veterinary Hospital. "The shelter needs monetary donations first and foremost. Bedding donations are very important as well to a veterinary hospital and shelter. Your donations will be utilized and appreciated."

Scott Williams of Beyond the Leash in Boxford is a professional canine trainer and knows first-hand the efforts, needs and costs associated with a disaster relief project. "We are very happy to help in this community-supported drive," he said.

At this time, monetary donations are encouraged. Persons wishing to make donations to assist animal rescue efforts can do so by a check payable to Humane Society of Missouri.

Bedding donations will be collected as well and shipped to the MSSU Animal Shelter.

Please drop your donations at any of the following locations:

• Ciao! Bow Wow, Butcher Boy Marketplace, 1109 Osgood St., North Andover. 978-975-3647 www.ciaobowwow.com.
• River Road Veterinary Hospital Inc., Tracie Fountas DVM. George Fountas DMV, 176 River Road, Andover. 978-687.8400 www.riverroadveterinaryhospital.com.
• Scott Williams, Beyond the Leash, 7 Iceland Road, Andover. 866.957.3647. www.BeyondTheLeash.net.