Brandy and Val

The Holiday Season has always been a time of giving and good cheer.  This year, with such uncertain economic times and with so many out of work, it makes it even more important for those who are able to chip in a little more  to do so and help others who are in need.  Family pets are often given up when money is tight since the added expense for feeding and caring for a pet’s health becomes too burdensome.  But, since having a pet has been shown to contribute to our own sound emotional health and well-being, it makes perfect sense to make every effort to keep these animals as part of the family, especially in times of great stress.

As a result, animal shelters, animal welfare agencies, the pet-store mega-chain, Petco, church groups and others are are establishing pet food banks to assist such families and individuals confronting this situation.  And, they are are stepping up to the plate big time!   In Berlin, Germany, a soup kitchen called Animal Board has even been established to cater to the dogs of the homeless and unemployed.

In the United States, the agencies getting on board are growing rapidly by the day.   At present, there is no national network coordinating pet food assistance programs.  However, many cities and towns are now offering pet food assistance programs and volunteers are always welcome!   For those in need or for those wishing to lend a hand, SaveOurPetsFoodbank.org lists several locations and organizations in about 2 dozen states that offer pet food assistance programs.  The Rescue BankSM in Houston is that city’s first food bank for dogs and for some reason(!) the blog FamilyWorks Seattle includes pet food bank info for New York and Oregon.  A special “GIVING” section in the November 12 edition of the New York Times devoted an article to this issue, titled: “A Patchwork of Food Assistance for Pets.” Individuals and pet-food distributors alike are contributing to help make things happen.  Happy people, Happy Pets, Happy Holidays!