FERNDALE- People with health problems can benefit from the love and companionship of their pets and an area non-profit is helping those folks with free pet food, treats, toys, and other donated items to assist them in keeping their animals.
For the past ten years, WAGS (Wonderful Animals Giving Support) has provided pet food, reduced cost veterinary care, and other materials and services to people living with HIV AIDS in the metro Detroit area.
This year more than half a ton of doggie treats, cat toys, pet food and other supplies are being distributed in December to the eighty clients served by the agency.
The pet food and supplies are donated by companies and stores that make and supply such items, and volunteers at WAGS package and arrange them for distribution during December at the offices of Midwest AIDS Prevention Project.
"Our offices are brimming with squeak toys, catnip, and treats during December each year", said Monica MIlls, office manager at MAPP. "We are so happy to be helping people care for their companion animals," she added.
Medical research studies show evidence of the benefits of the affection, warmth, and companionship by pets to people suffering from health problems.
WAGS is a program of MAPP and relies solely on donations and support from the community. It is designed for people living with HIV disease and serves clients with low or no income in southeast Michigan.
"Pets are part of the family", said Jihannh Jones, WAGS coordinator.
"We don't want to forget them during the holiday season."
