Rocky’s Ace Hardware’s ‘Love Your Pet’ Fundraiser to Run Through Feb. 24

SPRINGFIELD — Rocky’s Ace Hardware is again hosting a Rocky’s “Love Your Pet” fundraiser at eight of its Greater Springfield locations.

“February is a month dedicated to love, and we’re proud to work with the community to show love to animals that are in need,” said Rocky’s Ace Hardware President and CEO Rocco Falcone. “Approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter shelters nationwide each year, so we are eager to help relieve some of the burden put on shelters daily with this fundraiser.”

Through Sunday, Feb. 24, Rocky’s customers can purchase pawprints for a $1 minimum donation to show their support for the Thomas J. O’Connor (TJO) Animal Control and Adoption Center. Participating store locations include Agawam, East Longmeadow, Ludlow, Palmer, South Hadley, Springfield (Island Pond Road and Liberty Street), and Westfield.

Funds raised through the “Love Your Pet” event will be donated directly to benefit shelter animals at TJO Animal Control and Adoption Center by providing the resources to purchase medical equipment and supplies, enabling these animals to find forever homes. Last year, the eight Rocky’s locations raised more than $4,200 during the event.

The Foundation for TJO Animals, established in 2007, is dedicated to raising much-needed funds for the animals at the TJO Animal Control and Adoption Center. Over the past year, it helped return 641 animals to their owners and celebrated an additional 1,424 adoptions.