Lemmy lends a paw

By: 
Staff Writer Kate Wehlann

Local canine celebrity gathers donations of pet supplies for those in need

Like many did as news of the SARSII virus and the COVID19 disease began to increase, Chris and Paula Gross went shopping.

“We knew things were going to get bad and eventually, things would trickle down the line to affect pets,” said Chris. “People would start to panic because they can’t get their pet supplies or take care of their pets. We have friends in Kentucky who told us that shelters that had been clearing out were starting to become overfill. There’s not a lot of foster transportation going on. A lot is backed up, except for people bringing pets in.”

So they began buying and gathering pet food and treats for those, especially the elderly, who would otherwise be facing a very difficult decision: to give up their beloved pet because they couldn’t get out to the store for more food, or could get out, only to be met with empty shelves.

The Grosses, themselves, have a dog, a certain sassy basset named Lemmy, featured in commercials and advertising campaigns, and who has also been using her celebrity status to gather funds for shelters, awareness for pet adoption and fostering and other worthy causes. Now, she and her humans are working to save pets in a new way during the coronavirus pandemic.

Using the “Lemmy the sassy basset hound” Facebook page, they have been soliciting donations of dog and cat food and treats, along with kitten and puppy milk and other emergency necessities for pets (and their owners) in need. Chris said they have donated about 17 bags of dog food and more than 60 cans of cat food.

It’s not just for locals, either. Chris said they would be willing to ship supplies to anyone who needs them.

“If someone needs something in Los Angeles, we’ll ship it,” he said.

Chris said he would eventually like to set up a pet pantry for people to come get supplies of food or treats for their pets when they fall on hard times.

“I’d hate for anyone to give up their pet over a $20 bag of dog food,” he said.

But one crisis at a time. Those wishing to donate (preferably unopened) pet food, or those in need of supplies, can contact the Grosses through Lemmy’s Facebook page or call 812-620-7645. Chris said they can set the bags of food on their porch and the Grosses will come pick it up and drop it off where it needs to go.

If you have an opened bag of food you want to donate, Chris cautioned to call first. They are being selective for pet safety.

He added he does not want financial donations for supplies.

“Give financial donations to the animal shelter,” said Chris. “We’re also not really looking for any toys, just emergency essentials.”

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