PETCO Works With Make-A-Wish to Make a Difference

Bernice making an i.d. tag for her new puppy

Bernice is a shy, scared, young girl, suffering from a terminal disease. But for a day, PETCO got to make it all better.

Bernice is a “wish child” with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. As a kid with a lot of hard days behind her and yet to come, it was nice for her to enjoy an afternoon of just being a kid, shopping for her new golden retriever puppy, Scooby. The puppy, which she was picking up in exactly one week, was her “wish” from the foundation, but the trip to PETCO was an extra surprise.

When her family showed up at the Reno, Nev., PETCO, they were all smiles. Shannon, a store associate, met them at the front and walked them around; helping Bernice pick out all the items she needed for her new puppy. Bernice was timid at first, but as the hour went on, she began to pick out more fun products (including Scooby Snacks, natch) and asked Shannon all kinds of questions about her new pet parent status.

By the time their shopping trip was complete, Bernice was filled with joy, giggling and thanking the staff multiple times for their help. She walked out of the store with all her products; a crate, food, puppy pads, treats and toys, and the biggest smile on her face.

Bernice's family with PETCO associate, Shannon

 I wish I could have been there to see that smile. I am so glad PETCO chooses to be involved with such a great organization, where we get to make a difference not just in an animal’s life, but in a child’s life.