The Pandemic Pet Project

California Artist Draws Happiness for Pet Owners During Coronavirus

In mid-April, Castro Valley, CA Artist Ed Attanasio began looking around for something he could do to bring joy to people during the COVID-19 pandemic.

One day a few friends asked for him to draw their pets, and when they saw what he had created, they either smiled or cried tears of joy.

So, he reached out to all of his friends, fellow artists, and a few celebrities on Facebook and Instagram and started the Pandemic Pet Project (PPP), where he offers to draw peoples' pets.

PLEASE NOTE: As of January 1, 2022, I ask that you send me $25 per pet via PayPal (paypalme/attanasioed, click on send) when you submit your pet(s) to me on the PPP Facebook page. Then when you receive my drawing(s), hopefully you can donate the other $25 to the pet rescue that’s close to your heart.

What started as a favor to friends, Attanasio’s idea quickly gained momentum. "I thought maybe half a dozen people would respond, but on the first day, I had 30 requests and more than 50 by day two, and it's still growing!" (Total to-date: 2,500 illustrations sent to all 50 states and 26 countries)

Attanasio is hoping that by getting the attention of certain celebrities, the PPP will grow and raise more money. "I am drawing pets for people like Ellen DeGeneres, Rachael Ray, and Beth Stern because I am so proud of all the animal advocacy and the charity work they do."

If you want to be a part of The Pandemic Pet Project, go to Facebook at facebook.com/pandemicpetproject and submit photos of your pets (limit two per person) with your mailing address (via Messenger).