Business Details
30 Years
experience
Trusted Pet Care Assistance for Seniors and the Chronically Ill
Pet Pals Of Southern NJ has dedicated itself to improving the lives of pets and their owners since 1996. Our mission focuses on providing essential services to low-income seniors, disabled individuals, and those living with chronic illnesses, ensuring they can keep their companion animals healthy and by their side. We offer low-cost or no-cost pet food, preventive veterinary care, grooming, and supplemental supplies to qualifying clients in Camden, Gloucester, and Burlington Counties. Our volunteer-driven network also provides transportation assistance, client support, and long-term planning resources to address the unique challenges faced by our community. Recognizing the profound emotional and health benefits pets provide, we work to prevent pet surrenders by addressing financial and physical barriers to care.Our programs are designed to reduce suffering, promote companionship, and enhance the well-being of both pets and their owners. Through education, outreach, and community partnerships, we strive to raise awareness about the importance of pet care for vulnerable populations. Our organization operates with transparency, relying on donations and volunteer efforts to sustain our mission. By fostering connections between people and their pets, we aim to create a more compassionate and supportive community for all.
Services
Pet Food Assistance
Veterinary Care
Grooming Services
PAL Volunteer Program
Long-Term Planning
Education Resources
Community Outreach
Pet Transport
Client Support
Emergency Referrals
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We have served the community since 1996 with a focus on pet retention for vulnerable populations.
- Our volunteer network provides personalized support for pet owners facing financial hardship.
- We offer comprehensive services including food, preventive care, and grooming for pets in need.
- Our partnerships with local veterinarians ensure access to affordable healthcare for qualifying clients.
- We provide long-term planning resources to ensure continuous care for pets and their owners.
Services
Supplemental Food and Supplies
We deliver essential pet food and supplies to low-income seniors and individuals with chronic illnesses. Our program ensures pets receive balanced nutrition and necessary items like cat litter to maintain their health. This service prevents financial strain on owners while promoting animal well-being through consistent care.
Preventive Veterinary Care
Our network of partner veterinarians provides annual checkups, vaccinations, and preventive medications for qualifying clients. This service focuses on early detection of health issues and maintaining pet wellness through regular medical attention. We prioritize accessible, affordable care to prevent more serious conditions.
Grooming Services
Basic grooming assistance includes nail trimming and coat maintenance for dogs and cats. This service improves animal comfort and hygiene, addressing specific needs that owners may struggle to manage independently. Annual appointments ensure pets remain well-groomed and healthy.
PAL Volunteer Program
Trained volunteers deliver supplies, assist with pet care, and provide companionship to clients. PALs help transport pets to veterinary appointments and monitor animal health regularly. This personalized support strengthens the bond between owners and pets while addressing practical challenges.
Long-Term Planning
We offer resources for creating legal documents to ensure continuous pet care in case of owner incapacitation. This service includes referrals for wills and power-of-attorney arrangements, providing peace of mind for pet owners concerned about their animal's future.
People
Carol Swanson
President
Carol Swanson, an attorney since 1982, has served on PetPALS' board since 1998. She advocates for elderly clients' housing rights and operates her own law practice in Woodbury, NJ, focusing on legal aid for vulnerable populations.
Kenneth Sell
Treasurer
Kenneth Sell, a retired postal manager, has volunteered with PetPALS since 2002. He coordinates fundraising events, serves as a PAL volunteer, and has fostered multiple client pets while managing financial responsibilities as Treasurer since 2014.
Lynda Yamamoto
Secretary
Lynda Yamamoto, a 2010 Rutgers Law graduate, brings legal expertise to PetPALS' board. She focuses on senior advocacy through her work at South Jersey Legal Services and resides in Camden County with her family and dog Kaiju.
Questions
What services does PetPALS offer to qualifying clients?
We provide supplemental pet food, preventive veterinary care, grooming services, and long-term planning resources to low-income seniors and individuals with chronic illnesses in southern New Jersey.
Who qualifies for PetPALS assistance?
Residents of Camden, Gloucester, or Burlington Counties who are low-income seniors, disabled, or chronically ill pet owners with household income documentation and pets altered for at least six months.
Does PetPALS provide emergency veterinary care?
No, we focus on preventive care and cannot assist with emergency situations. Visit our Resources page for alternative emergency care options in New Jersey.
How does the PAL volunteer program work?
Trained volunteers deliver supplies, assist with pet care, and provide companionship. PALs help transport pets to appointments and monitor their health through regular visits to client homes.
Can I donate pet supplies to PetPALS?
We accept donations of unopened pet food, supplies, and monetary contributions. Contact us directly to arrange donations or learn about current inventory needs for our clients.
