Remember Me Thursday 2014

In 2013 more than 100,000 pet lovers from 83 countries participated

On Thursday, September 25, 2014, the Helen Woodward Animal Center united with animal lovers and animal welfare organizations worldwide for the 2nd Annual Remember Me Thursday candle-lighting ceremony. The candles, lit simultaneously around the world, honored the millions of pets who lost their lives over the past year without the benefit of a loving home—and millions more who are still in need of permanent homes.

In 2013 more than 100,000 pet lovers from 83 countries joined us.

In 2014 involvement by animal welfare organizations more than doubled, to 334 groups participating worldwide. The campaign reached 138 countries.

As we head into the holiday season, another important Helen Woodward Animal Center pet adoption program is underway.

“Millions of families add a furry family member to their homes each holiday season,” Helen Woodward Animal Center President Mike Arms stated. “Yet over three million orphaned dogs and cats are put to death each year in the U.S. alone. It doesn’t make sense.”

Arms created Home 4 the Holidays when he noticed a majority of rescue facilities were closing their doors during the holiday season. Helen Woodward helped kick off the 16th annual Blue Buffalo Home 4 the Holidays campaign in mid-October, with a goal this year to find a forever home for the 10 millionth orphaned pet.

––Jessica Gercke, public relations manager

Helen Woodward Animal Center

Rancho Santa Fe, California

jessicag@animalcenter.org