LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – A new hotline hopes to keep pets in their homes, and help people find their lost pets quicker.
It’s the Animal Foundation’s Pet Support Hotline, and since its soft launch one month ago, it’s already taken nearly 3,000 calls.
Animal Foundation CEO Hilarie Grey says the hotline can be used for a variety of reasons, including people looking for their lost pet, or who’ve found a pet and need help with their next steps.
“Hopefully we can walk those good Samaritans who find a pet in their neighborhood through easy ways to get that pet home so it doesn’t end up in the shelter,” Grey says.
People who are debating surrendering their pets can also call the hotline for resources and advice.
“We find that a lot of people who are thinking of giving up their pet just need a bit of help, pet food, programs to help with pet rent, she says. “Connections to low-cost vet care.”
The hotline is available seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.. It’s staffed with four customer service representatives who are hired specifically for this role.
Grey says the shelter took in over 600 pets last week. She’s hoping the hotline will help lessen their load.
“Getting those lost pets home and saving them a trip to the shelter, and then helping the people who are struggling to be able to keep their pets, is gonna make sure that we have the space and resources to devote to the animals that need us the most,” she says.
It’s too early for data to see how the hotline has affected their intake numbers, but they’ll be monitoring it closely in the coming months.
To reach the Pet Support Hotline call: 702-955-5932
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