Each year the PETCO Foundation holds a gala honoring public figures with their HOPE Award, an award that symbolizes the hope in promoting the bond between humans and animals. Ellen DeGeneres will receive the award at this year’s gala in San Diego on April 30. Says DeGeneres:

“I wish we lived in a world where caring for animals wasn’t so rare that it deserved an award. All I do is treat animals with the respect and dignity they deserve. I hope someday soon, everyone does the same. PETCO and the PETCO Foundation have made great efforts to protect animals and I commend them for going above and beyond the call of duty.”

All proceeds from the event will benefit the Halo Pet Foundation.

*Photo courtesy of www.starpulse.com

“Circumstances are the creatures of men.” –Benjamin Disraeli