Research studies have observed positive mental and physical health benefits such as less surgical pain, reduced cardiac risk and better social functioning for children with autism with exposure to animals or animal ownership. Additionally, animals provide assistance and companionship to individuals with disabilities, the homeless and the elderly, three groups who benefit from companionship but may be least able to afford to feed their animals pet food due to fixed or no incomes.
A survey* of food bank/pantry staff and volunteers found that the staff and volunteers believe that clients use pantry food to feed their animals when pet food is not available. In other words, having pet food available at the food bank/ pantry means that humans are more likely to eat the food intended for them. Having pet food available ensures that pets are getting food that has the nutrients meant for them. Many human foods are not meant for pets and some are poisonous.
On a personal note my small Pomeranian ate 5 oz of brie cheese that was left on a coffee table while we adjourned to the dining room. The result was a very sick dog including a trip to the veterinary hospital, blood work, an IV to replace fluids and a very expensive bill. Not to mention the carpet cleaning bill.
Any veterinarian will tell you not to give your pets table scraps. But when you do not have the resources to purchase pet food what is a person to do?
You can help by taking pet food to any of our donation sites across the country so that low income and no income can get pet food for their companions from a local food bank.
*Survey by Child Welfare Education and Research Programs Research Assistant Professor Mary Elizabeth Rauktis
