BeLoved Finds: A Thrift Shop with a Heart for Pets in North Park

In the vibrant neighborhood of North Park, a new pop-up thrift shop is making waves not just for its eclectic collection of vintage treasures, but also for its heartfelt mission to support pets in need. BeLoved Finds Thrift & Vintage, located at 4129 30th St., opened its doors in May 2024, and is quickly becoming a beloved community hub for animal lovers and thrifting enthusiasts alike.

A Unique Concept: Thrifting for a Cause

BeLoved Finds is not your typical thrift store. While it offers a variety of home decor items, it also has a special focus on pet-related supplies. Owner Susan Kaplan has ingeniously combined her passion for thrifting with her love for animals, creating a space where shoppers can find unique items while contributing to a noble cause. Each month, the store collects pet supplies, which are stored separately until the end of the month when they are donated to a selected pet rescue organization.

Kaplan explains, “We accept collars, harnesses, unopened food, pens, crates, water bowls, dog beds, cat beds — just about any pet supply you can think of that would be clean enough and new enough to give to a foster parent for that animal.” This thoughtful approach ensures that every donation goes directly to helping animals in need, making every purchase at BeLoved Finds a step towards finding forever homes for pets.

A Lifelong Commitment to Animals

Susan Kaplan’s journey with animals began at a young age. “I was already pet-sitting in middle school for money and then into high school for money,” she recalls. Her love for animals led her to establish BeLoved Pet Sitting in 2010, a successful business that has grown to serve around 675 clients in San Diego. This year, she felt compelled to expand her impact on the animal community, leading to the creation of BeLoved Finds.

“I’m hoping every month we help about 50 animals,” Kaplan shares, emphasizing her commitment to making a difference. The store is not just a business for her; it’s a way to give back to the community and support the furry friends who need it most.

Thrifts and Adoption Events: A Community Affair

In addition to collecting pet supplies, BeLoved Finds actively collaborates with local rescue organizations to host adoption events. These events provide a platform for rescues to showcase animals looking for homes, fostering a sense of community and encouraging pet adoption. The next adoption event is scheduled for September 7, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring Tragic to Magic, a nonprofit rescue based in Rosarito, Mexico, dedicated to helping homeless, sick, and unwanted animals.

This partnership is part of a larger initiative, Clear the Shelters, a monthlong campaign by NBC 7 and Telemundo 20 aimed at promoting pet adoption and donations. Kaplan’s vision for BeLoved Finds extends beyond just selling thrift items; it’s about creating a community that rallies around the cause of animal welfare.

How to Get Involved

For those looking to support BeLoved Finds and its mission, there are several ways to get involved. Pet owners can donate gently used pet supplies by dropping them off at the store’s back alley bins, which are emptied regularly by staff. The store is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays.

Additionally, pet rescues interested in being featured as the rescue of the month can fill out an application on BeLoved Finds‘ website, further expanding the network of support for animals in need.

A Bright Future Ahead

As BeLoved Finds continues to grow, Kaplan remains optimistic about the impact her store can have on the local animal community. “I’ve been thrifting my entire life. Garage sales, estate sales, thrifting,” she says, reflecting on her journey. By merging her hobbies with her passion for animal welfare, she has created a unique space that not only offers treasures for shoppers but also serves as a beacon of hope for pets in need.

In a world where shopping can often feel disconnected, BeLoved Finds Thrift & Vintage stands out as a heartwarming reminder of the power of community and compassion. Whether you’re looking for a vintage find or a way to support local animals, this North Park gem is a must-visit destination.

For more information about BeLoved Finds, upcoming events, and how to get involved, visit their Instagram page or their website. Together, we can help find forever homes for our furry friends!