The rising cost of groceries has been in the news a lot but often overlooked is that many people struggling with economic and food insecurity have beloved pets who need food as well.
To ease the financial burden families with dogs are facing, Best Friends Fur Ever (BFFE) announced it is launching a Pet Food Pantry. This service will collect donated dog food and distribute it through trusted community partners in Harford and Baltimore counties.
“A temporary financial setback should never mean losing a lifelong companion,” said Mary Steinebrunner, president of Best Friends Fur Ever. “Our goal is simple: help keep pets where they belong, with the families who love them. Every bag of donated food has the potential to relieve stress for a family and prevent unnecessary surrender.”
The pantry accepts unopened bags and cans of dog food and unopened containers of dog treats. These will be given to local nonprofit partners and community outreach organizations to distribute to pet owners in need. Helping families with pets take care of their animals will reduce unnecessary surrenders, keeping more dogs safely at home with loved ones.
“Too many families are forced to make heartbreaking decisions simply because they’re struggling to afford pet food,” Steinebrunner said. “We believe that no one should have to choose between feeding their family and keeping their best friend.”
Donations may be dropped off during normal business hours (6:15 a.m.–6:30 p.m.) at Best Friends Fur Ever’s Cockeysville and Joppa locations. Donation guidelines and drop-off information are available on the Best Friends Fur Ever website.
