Broadening their support of animal welfare and adoption efforts, Petco Animal Supplies Inc. (San Diego) and its charitable Petco Foundation recently launched an all-inclusive Think Adoption First initiative and signed a five-year, $1 million agreement to help the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA.

As part of its Think Adoption First initiative, launched Aug. 28-29 with a National Pet Adoption Days campaign, Petco employees in stores across the country will encourage customers to consider adopting a pet before they purchase a new companion animal.

Petco, which has worked with shelters for almost 40 years to find homes for millions of adoptable animals, does not sell dogs or cats but does offer small animals, reptiles and birds. It will use the Petfinder.com searchable database to reach out to shelters that offer these other animals for adoption.

"Petco is committed to programs and efforts that enhance the human-animal bond, and this initiative is another example of the 'Animals Always Come First' philosophy that sets us apart as a leader," said James Myers, chief executive officer of Petco. "Think Adoption First is the right thing to do, and we are absolutely committed to making this work, to the benefit of adoptable animals and our community animal welfare partners."

"Petco's historical commitment to adoption is evidenced by their long-term support of Petfinder.com's efforts in facilitating the adoption of over 1.5 million animals into loving families each year," said Betsy Saul, president and co-founder of Petfinder.com. "Think Adoption First will ensure that, for years to come, Petco will play a part in saving millions of companion animals' lives-and Petfinder.com is proud to partner with such a company."

In related news, Petco and the Petco Foundation said it would give the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA $1 million in cash through direct donations and a percentage of in-house fundraising efforts to support animal welfare programs. In addition, Petco will provide marketing opportunities for the organization through radio advertising, in-store messaging and promotional opportunities at Petco Park.

In return, the organization will name the main courtyard of its San Diego campus Petco Plaza, recognize Petco as a lead sponsor at each of the humane society's three annual events, and recognize Petco as a major benefactor on its donor wall.

"This partnership will ensure that the caring, compassionate and creative programs developed at the San Diego Humane Society will serve as a model as to how a 21st century animal welfare organization should be operated," said Bruce Hall, president and chief operating officer of Petco.

Petco and the Petco Foundation have long supported the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA, a private nonprofit organization, through in-store adoptions, fundraisers, contributions and sponsorships. [November 2004 PET AGE]