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COLUMBIA, MO. -- While much attention has been focused on the Joplin tornado victims, their pets have received very little help.

That’s why the Columbia Canine Sports Center has teamed with some Mizzou Vet School Students for a collection drive.

Drive coordinators said the Joplin animals need dog and puppy food, cat food, cat litter and litter trays, blankets and bedding materials.

Columbia’s Lizzi and Rocco’s Natural Pet Market is one of the drive’s drop-off locations.

Lizzi & Rocco’s Owner Kyle Schlosser said, “They’re scared.  A lot of them are homeless now and wandering around and wondering where their families are.  The shelter down there is being overwhelmed with animals being dropped off at the shelter.”

Project SNAP has been asked to be the collection point in Jefferson City for donations needed by the Joplin Humane Society and animal welfare groups assisting with displaced animals in Joplin.

Donations can be dropped off at 335 Tomahawk Road on the east side of Jefferson City or 304 Troy Street on the west side of town.

If you have any questions, you can call project SNAP at 573-636-3525.