When people think of pets in Dallas, they probably think of pampered metropolitan cats and dogs downtown or hearty ranch pups living it up. They think of abundance and sunshine and all the good things we hope all pets have.
But the reality for some pets and their families in Dallas is that of struggle.
In Dallas 1 in 6 individuals has found themselves uncertain when their next meal would come. This is an issue that impacts not just people, but the pets who also rely on them for their next meal. And the situation is tough - the food insecurity rate in Dallas outpaces the national average by 47%.
During the winter months, when Dallas also contends with cold snaps and extreme weather that can be difficult for folks in Texas, the situation can be that much more difficult. For the thousands of homeless pet families that call the city home, that is especially true.
This underscores just how critical a service our pet food pantry is.
When families don't have enough food and basic necessities to go around, they are left with no good options. It can mean feeding a pet instead of themselves. It can mean braving dangerously low temperatures without the right tools to stay safe.
It can mean making the difficult decision to surrender a beloved family member to the shelter. As we strive to increase lifesaving for the homeless pets we care for, it's doubly important that these pets get to stay at home and with their families - they're already loved and less animals coming in means we can do more for the ones we already have.
At this time of year, we are most in need of food and cold weather items such as dog sweaters and blankets (read our latest update to learn more about our work with the homeless pet families of Dallas). Please consider supporting this critical service and help pet families in need today!