Volunteer seeks pet beds for L.A. shelter during the holidays

Volunteers are hoping to fill one of Los Angeles’ largest animal shelters with more than 200 pet beds so dogs and cats will have a soft place to sleep this holiday season.

Tracy James, who has been volunteering at the L.A. Animal Services North Central Shelter since 2009, came up with the idea after reading about a similar drive at another shelter.

The beds, which have frames made of metal or PVC pipe and vinyl support, are a better alternative to the hard concrete floors or plastic beds – sometimes used as chew toys – currently in the shelters, James said.

“Of course we want them to get out and be in homes, but making them more comfortable is good for everyone,” she said.

A $45 donation to buy a cat bed comes with a gift certificate for a half-dozen cupcakes from the Susie Cakes bakery; a $90 donation will pay for a dog bed, and the donor will receive a certificate for a dozen cupcakes. Any amount will help, she said, and those who donate before Dec. 31 will receive a cupcake gift certificate.

Bedding cycles quickly through shelters because it gets soiled or destroyed, so centers are constantly in need – even towels help make dogs more comfortable, she said.

Donations can be made online.

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