Pet parents can find a twist on pet care at Voodoo Brewing Company with a pet supply swap and drive Feb. 21.
In the sociable setting of the Scranton brew pub, owners can bring supplies to trade with each other or donate to the Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge. Pet professionals, such as groomers, will be there to answer questions.
It is organized by Kindness in Chaos of Northeastern Pennsylvania, a small mutual-aid group.
“The idea of a swap is great, because everyone has extra things that they’re either not using, or didn’t ever fit, whatever that might be,” said co-founder Caitlin Rogan of Scranton. “And it’s a great way to kind of reduce consumption, have folks come together, and say, ‘I have extra this. Oh, I might want this thing that you have.’ And it’s really fun.”
The event is from 2 to 5 p.m. and is for all ages, but no pets. Bring new or gently used leashes, toys and similar supplies. Pet food packages must be unopened to be swapped or donated. Blue Chip gets any leftovers. Attendees can order their own food and drinks.
Supplies will also be collected to go straight to Blue Chip, which is in Franklin Twp., Luzerne County. Raffle basket sales will benefit the shelter.
Kindness in Chaos of Northeastern Pennsylvania consists mainly of Rogan; Amber Chmiola, who lives in Luzerne County; and Eden Tinkelman, who lives in Susquehanna County. They began a year ago with a pet supply swap that drew about a dozen people.
“It hit a couple beats, in terms of why our group exists,” Rogan said. “So, within mutual aid, there’s this basic concept that communities can care for each other and that we exist to give folks the opportunity to build that network of caring.”
The three women have a total of 10 dogs and cats.
They have organized other collections for nonprofits and use social media to connect other volunteer efforts.
Rogan hopes the supply swap will bring in new faces. Their Facebook following has grown past 800, with around 170 followers on Instagram.
”We’re really excited to see what more we can do, with more people on board, now that we’re kind of established and we know what we’re capable of doing with three people,” Rogan said. “We’re excited to see what we can do with more.”
The Facebook link to the event is facebook.com/share/1AkK27AcLv.
Voodoo Brewing Company is at 820 S. Washington Ave.