Chandler Clausen, with two of her four pets, is organizing the Signal Mountain Social Services Paws and Claws Pet Supply Drive as part of her SMHS senior project. Collection boxes for food, toys and other supplies will be at SMMHS and mountain businesses Feb. 14-18.
Photo by Emily CrismanWhile helping pack and deliver items donated to Signal Mountain Social Services in baskets to local families this Christmas, Signal Mountain High School senior Chandler Clausen noticed one group that remained neglected over the holiday season: pets.
Chandler guessed all 52 families receiving donation baskets from SMSS this year had at least one pet, and the family she delivered to had about three or four cats and dogs.
“They had a ton of dogs and cats outside, really skinny and in metal cages,” she said. “It made me really sad they couldn’t afford pet foods and toys.”
For her SMHS senior project, Chandler has already organized food and hygiene drives for SMSS. She is now organizing the Paws and Claws Pet Supply Drive for SMSS Feb. 14-18.
Chandler said she would like to collect new or used items people might need to help their pets live better, happier lives, such as dog and cat food, treats, toys, beds, shampoos, leashes, collars and dog houses.