The hardships due to COVID-19 and its economic fallout aren’t reserved for people: our furry friends are suffering too.

With that in mind, Elmira-based Nutram is providing $50,000 for animal shelters, awarding 10 prizes of $5,000 via an online contest called Vote for Humane Kind.

A Canadian owned and operated pet food company, Nutram announced the contest in response to the growing need among animal shelters.

“What we’ve decided to do [is] we reached out to the communities. And we’re asking for them to choose the top 10 pet shelters within Canada, and each pet shelter within the top 10 are going to receive $5,000 to be used for  whatever needs they have, whether it’s food or vaccinations – any need at all,” said Nutram brand manager Heather McKay.

Vote for Humane Kind allows Canadians to vote daily for the shelter they would like to see earn a donation. The first local shelter included in the poll is the Kitchener Waterloo Humane Society. However, McKay says they are open to additional shelters.

“Nominations will be accepted throughout the entire campaign, and that runs until May 31 of this year, so we’re very happy to accept nominations for other shelters in need in the area,” she said.

“We’ve recognized the need for shelter support in Canada. They’re seeing many new pets coming into shelters, either being surrendered due to job cuts, job loss, or they’re being surrendered due to other circumstances. We’re also seeing the positive side of it. We’re seeing pets going home to new families,” she said.

“With every pet that comes through a pet shelter, there’s increased need for care, spaying and neutering, nutrition needs, etc. And all of that, of course, comes at a cost.”

Although the company is focusing on Canada specifically, Nutram ships pet food to some 30 countries worldwide.

Dr. Tom Foster, owner of Wellesley Veterinary Clinic, notes that animal shelters would also be happy to see direct donations, as well.

“If people want to make donations, the shelters and humane societies would be good places.”

Click here for more info about the contest and to vote.