Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC), the area's premier no-kill shelter, is proud to receive grant funding from Petco Love, a national nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of pets and the people who love them.

This $3,500 investment supports HSSC's lifesaving mission and helps ensure vulnerable animals have access to the care, medical treatment, and second chances they deserve. Through partnerships with shelters and rescue organizations throughout Florida, HSSC continues to play a critical role in saving animals whose lives are at risk due to overcrowding, limited resources, or lack of access to veterinary care.

In 2024, HSSC saved 3,179 animals and achieved a 96.4% save rate. Among those lives were 1,703 at-risk animals transferred from partner shelters that needed additional support and placement opportunities. These transfers represent some of the most vulnerable animals in the sheltering system, and grant funding helps make their rescue and care possible.

One of those animals was Nino. In late 2024, Nino was transferred to HSSC from Highlands County Animal Services after testing positive for heartworm disease. Without access to the treatment he needed, his future could have looked very different. Thanks to the support of partners like Petco Love, Nino received the lifesaving heartworm treatment at HSSC, completed his recovery in early 2025, and found a loving home through adoption in February.

Stories like Nino's demonstrate the impact of grant funding on animals in need. As HSSC continues its work in 2025, support from Petco Love will help save even more animals, provide critical medical care, and create positive outcomes for pets and families throughout our community.