WSU Extension hosts wildfire relief drive for horses and pets

People across the Inland Northwest have two new ways to help animals and their owners affected by the recent Spokane wildfires.

Washington State University Extension and Spokane County 4-H are hosting a horse tack and equipment giveaway from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8, and collecting pet food and cleaning supplies for SpokAnimal through Aug. 11. Donations for both efforts can be dropped off at the WSU Spokane County Extension office, 222 N. Havana St, Spokane, Washington 99202.

"The response from the Spokane community has been huge," said Kate McCloskey, WSU Spokane County 4-H program coordinator. "People have offered equipment, supplies and their time, and our job is to connect that support with families who need it."

Horse equipment giveaway

Saturday's giveaway will provide new or gently used saddles, bridles, bits, reins, blankets, grooming supplies and other equipment directly to horse owners affected by the fires from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Families can visit the Extension office and take the items they need.

The effort was organized partly in response to the destruction of a local boarding stable where approximately 60 horses were saved, but the barn and much of its equipment were lost.

"We were heartbroken because these kids still have plans to go to shows and fairs this summer," McCloskey said. "They saved their horses, but they lost saddles, bridles, brushes and all the other equipment that goes with them."

Community members may bring horse-related donations to the event. Volunteers are needed from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to unload and sort donations, assist families and clean up.

Paws of Hope pet relief drive

The Paws of Hope pet relief drive is collecting new, unopened and unexpired dog food, cat food, cat litter, paper towels and cleaning supplies through Tuesday, Aug. 11. Donations will go to SpokAnimal, which is sheltering displaced animals and helping evacuated families care for their pets.

"There are families who have their pets with them, but they need food because they lost everything in the fire," said Jennifer Fees, a WSU Spokane County 4-H program coordinator and educator. "We're keeping our list focused on what SpokAnimal needs most."

Supplies can be delivered to the Extension office or shipped there through Amazon or Chewy. Spokane residents may also leave donations at 826 E. Overbluff Road. Financial contributions can be made directly to SpokAnimal.

WSU Extension connects Washington communities with university research, educational programs and local resources. Spokane County 4-H is one of the youth programs it operates in partnership with volunteers and community organizations.

Media Contacts

• Tammy Wilson, Interim director, WSU Spokane County Extension, [email protected]