Our pets give us meaning, security, and companionship during tough times. This is especially true for pet-parents who have fallen on hard times or struggle to make ends meet.

Barriers to Accessing Care

Houselessness can be an isolating experience, and many will face loneliness as a result of the stigma surrounding it. In these trying times, pets offer unconditional love, the kind that can keep us going. Who hasn’t felt better after a bad day thanks to some soothing purrs or wagging tails?

There is no question about it: the people seeking help from the VHS love their animals dearly and treasure them more than anything. We saw this love firsthand when we joined their outreach booth.

These folks often come from underserved communities that face barriers when accessing veterinary care. The Because They Matter program can help bridge these needs and keep these families together.

On the Ground Helping Vancouver Pets

At the event, the VHS and partner volunteers hand out supplies like pet food, leashes, and other care items, and volunteers start meaningful conversations about how to access vet care. We were honored to join the Because They Matter initiative not only as donors but as volunteers as well!

Our team – including NHV founder and president Patra – had a great time meeting adorable pets and chatting with their owners. Everyone we met has a different story, but all of them were connected through their immense love of pets.

Here’s what one NHV employee-turned-volunteer shared about the day:

It was so nice to see that even in these hard situations, people are still open to loving and taking care of a pet. In many situations, these pets are considered their only friend or family. And they were so grateful for the help – very excited to get new things for their beloved furry friends. Also, seeing so many volunteers warmed my heart!

Every Pet Deserves a Little TLC

In addition to our cash donation, we brought a case of Coco-Furcare to hand out. Coco-Furcare can help keep pets fresh between baths, and the natural oils can help keep pests at bay.

Sharing these with community members was a joy, and we love imagining all the happy pets that will get a nice massage as their owners spritz them with this fur-softening formula. Even pets like to feel pampered!

Loving Pets in Vancouver and Beyond

Pets bring so much joy into our lives. They make us laugh, help us through hard times, and give us meaning. Sharing that joy with these pet parents as they received much-needed items for their pets truly warmed our hearts.

Our love of pets has led us on a journey to create some of the top-rated pet supplements in the world, and now, as our way of giving back, we are doing our part to ensure that the pets in our city can be just as happy and healthy.

We want to thank the VHS for what they do for the community and for allowing us to make a difference with them. Learn more about our friends at the VHS and their initiative here.