Pre-Veterinary Club Pet Food Drive Nets Over 1,000 Pounds of Donated Items

JONESBORO – The Pre-Veterinary Club at Arkansas State University presented the donations they have collected over the past couple of weeks to two local organizations.  
 
Representatives from Jonesboro Animal Services (JAS) and the Northeast Arkansas Humane Society (NEAHS) were presented with donations that totaled over 1,000 pounds. 
 
This started with an idea to find out what was needed. Dr. Wynne DiGrassie, associate dean for clinical programs with the College of Veterinary Medicine, said she saw a social media post about the need for donations. 
 
“As soon as I knew about the government shutdown and SNAP benefits being cut, the first thing I thought was, has anyone really thought about the animals and how they are going to be fed,” DiGrassie added.  
 
Representatives from both organizations were happy to have the help provided by the community. 
 
“We have a lot of people who come in and need food for their pets. Times are hard right now, so we’ll give them as much food as we can,” said Mike Owens, rescue and adoption coordinator for JAS.  
 
Amy Schmidt, administrative director of NEAHS, said they had received calls from people worried about feeding their pets who had inquired about surrendering them. 

“These were family pets that were really loved. When we were asked, ‘What do you need,’ I just said that we needed food for the food pantry. That’s the amazing thing about being part of this community. You don’t always have to ask; someone will ask what you need,” she said.  
 
Both organizations said they provide food for those who need it for their pets, no questions asked. Members of the club say they were happy to help.  
 
“It's a great feeling to know that the community really does want to support people in the area and help them be able to keep their animals,” said Amber Cisneros, a sophomore animal science pre-vet major from Hope.  

Donations included wet and dry dog and cat food, treats, supplements, and toys. More than 70 toys were made from donated t-shirts by members of the student club.  

“This is what community is, and it feels so heartwarming to see that everyone came together,” added Cicneros, a member of the Pre-Veterinary Club.
 
Donations of supplies can be made anytime to either organization. To make donations to JAS, contact 870-935-3920 or NEAHS at 870-932-5185.