Pet foodbank set up in Dorset to help families struggling
Rising costs are forcing people in Dorset to give up their pets because they can't afford to feed them
Dorset Dogs, which has over 17,000 members, has set up a pet foodbank to try and help but is warning it needs funds and sponsorship to continue.
Nicky Crowe runs the site and said: "Rescue centres are completely overwhelmed with how many dogs and pets are coming into them. Many people are giving food to their pets before themselves and that's utterly heartbreaking.
"We've set up the pets foodbank to help but equally need help to keep it going".
"If you are struggling to feed your pets, then please pop along to the Canford Heath food bank and take what you need".
According to the Association of Dogs and Cats Homes (ADCH) survey of more than 60 animal shelters across England, 92% of shelters have seen an increase in people wanting to surrender a dog compared to pre-pandemic levels, and 88% saw an increase in people wanting to surrender cats.
Nicky added: "Pets are family, and we want to help keep families together. Eventually, we plan to have a network of Pet Food Banks across Dorset.
Each bank is run on a trust basis – we trust that only those in real need will take what they need, and we hope the Dorset community will donate pet food if they are in a position to help".
How to donate:
Donations can be dropped off at
Canford Heath Community Fridge, 7 Mitchell Rd, Canford Heath, Poole BH17 8UE (car park is on Scarf Road) Mon. to Sat. 09.30 - 10.30am.
Or
Southbourne, Café Riva, Boscombe Overcliff Drive, BH5 2EL
PICK-UPS: Currently covering (BH3, BH8,9,10,11,12,13) TEXT 07544 801046 start text: "DFD + address"
Or email hello@dorsetdogs.com for a collection near you.
If you own an accessible business and could host a Pet Food Bank, offer a collection service or volunteer to get involved in the initiative, please email hello@dorsetdogs.com
All the details are also available on our website https://dorsetdogs.com/food-bank