More than 45,000 pets have been signed up for the
Pets Food Stamps program launched earlier this month.
The donation-based program, not affiliated with the federal government, will provide qualified families with pet food for six months by having them order it through the independent retailer petflow.com. Other reports name Pet Food Direct as the independent retailer Pet Food Stamps is working with.
To qualify for Pet Food Stamps, pet owners are evaluated based on need and income, and according to
TODAY, use the allotment they’re given to order the pet food through Pet Food Stamps staff. The food is then delivered to the member’s home.
Money for Pet Food Stamps comes from private donations; Its nonprofit status is pending.
Marc Okon, founder and executive director of the pet food stamps program, told KRQE News, that in the past two weeks, more than 45,000 pets have been signed up for the program, which accepts online donations.
“It aims to prevent people from having to choose from feeding themselves or their pets or having to surrender their pet to a high-kill shelter,” Okon said.
Pet Food Stamps is expected to add free or deeply-discounted veterinary care for pets of eligible families to its programming.
Pet AssistancePreviously,
The New York Times reported the rise in dog and cat surrenders by owners facing economic hardship, and in response, that animal welfare groups were stepping up to help out pet owners in need.
The Humane Society of the United States has a
list of national organizations that provide financial assistance to pet owners facing tough times.
