Austin’s thrift store enthusiasts have a new place to shop, all for a good cause. Modeled after successful shelter thrift stores in other cities around the country, Austin Pets Alive! Thrift opened on Burnet Road over Mother’s Day weekend. The store allows customers to “shop for you, save a life,” as proceeds help fund APA!’s unique lifesaving programs.

“The reason we are able to be the shelter of last resort for so many animals is in large part because of our resourcefulness — we innovate on behalf of our pets, and we’re so fortunate to exist in a city that deeply cares about its pet community,” says Dr. Ellen Jefferson, executive director of Austin Pets Alive!, in a press release.

“Since caring for both animals and the environment are so central to the essence of Austin, opening a thrift store — where we can help the community recycle usable items to help shelter pets in need — makes so much sense to us.”

APA!’s innovative programs have garnered national attention as models for other shelters, including the parvo puppy ICU (the first of its kind in the nation), neonatal kitten program, dog behavior program, and barn cat placement program, to name just a few. Thanks to these lifesaving programs and initiatives, APA! has become the keystone in Austin’s status as the largest no-kill city in the country.

The store, which occupies a former pawn shop, is small and quaint but large enough to hold a variety of items for sale, from clothing and shoes to vintage décor, glassware, kitchenware, toys, memorabilia, and, of course, a few things for your furry friends. It is run by APA! volunteers who receive, sort, and merchandise donations brought in by the public.

“We’re excited to continue contributing to Austin’s culture of uniqueness and philanthropy,” says Jefferson, “and we feel confident that the community will welcome its newest nonprofit thrift store as it helps save the lives of our pets — Austinites can literally save lives through shopping!”

Austin Pets Alive! Thrift is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm and accepts tax-deductible donations of clothing, accessories, and other small items and collectibles. For more information about the thrift store, including volunteer opportunities, go here.