How to Get Assistance Paying for Pet Food

Pets are often overlooked victims of poverty. When times get tough and families have to make financial sacrifices, expenses like dog and cat food can become unaffordable. Desperate owners may resort to abandoning their pets in shelters, feeding their pets only table scraps, or even allowing the animal to go hungry. If you're coping with a low income and struggling to pay for your pet's food, here are some ways that you can get help.

Check with a local shelter. When I adopted my cat from a local animal shelter, I noticed that the paperwork told me to contact the shelter if I couldn't afford to pay for his medical care or food. Although shelters don't want to have to support pets who have left their care, it's cheaper to help owners than to allow the pet to be surrendered back to the shelter. Almost all shelters will provide help for pets previously adopted through their facilities, and many will also provide for pets adopted or purchased from other sources.

Look for a pet food bank in your area. Some large cities, including Chicago, Pittsburgh, and Albuquerque, have local pet food banks for low income families. These are charities specifically designed to provide pet food for low-income families. Find out about these shelters by asking local veterinarians or animal shelters for a referral.

Talk to your cat's vet about financial assistance. If your pet is on a special diet due to a medical need, pet food can be even more expensive-- and may only be available through your vet. If you can't afford to meet your pet's special needs, tell your veterinarian. She may be able to refer you to credit programs or charities that will help to fund your pet's especially hefty food bill.

Turn to human food banks. Pet food often turns up in food banks. Grocery stores and private individuals who wish to donate to food banks will often include food for impoverished pets in their donations-- knowing that many families struggling to feed people are also struggling to feed pets. Call 2-1-1 for a referral to local food banks. You'll likely be able to get assistance with pets' needs as well as your own.

Pets should not be forced to suffer because their owners can't afford pet food. Fortunately, many systems are in place to provide relief to struggling families with pets. If you are in financial need and can't afford your pet's food, don't be afraid to reach out for help. Assistance is available that can lift this burden and help support your pet.