LOCKLAND, Ohio (WKRC) – A local animal shelter is helping pet owners keep their furry friends fed, free of charge.
The SPCA Cincinnati recently opened its Chow Now Pantry. It’s an idea three years in the making.
The goal is to combat the rising cost of pet food and the financial strain from the pandemic.
It also gives owners one less reason to have to surrender their animals.
“If there’s a resource that we can provide, whether it’s beyond the food, that’s what SPCA Cincinnati is here for. There is absolutely no shame in saying, ‘I need help,’” said public relations manager Nyketa Gaffney.
Owners simply have to visit Chow Now on open days and fill out a form with their animal’s needs.
It’s something the SPCA Cincinnati previously did on a case-by-case basis, but now has a permanent program and location.
“Since the beginning of this initiative, we’ve distributed over 60,000 pounds of pet food each and every year, and it continues to grow,” said Gaffney. “So, we definitely expect to exceed that with this additional location and distribution center.”
Gaffney says pets face food insecurity just like people do.
“Anything that a pet parent would experience, their pet will experience, as well. So, whatever crisis you’re experiencing as an individual, it directly impacts your children and the rest of your family,” she said.
Chow Now is run by volunteers, in partnership with other community organizations.
They’re also the ones who operate the Chow Now Food Truck, which visits pop-up locations all over the Tri-State.
“We’ll do what’s necessary to make sure that family is taken care of,” said Gaffney.
Gaffney says she hopes that, eventually, no one will have to give up their animal because they can’t afford food.
Hopefully, one day, we will be out of business because we’ve met all the needs,” she said. “So, we’re happy to be here for our community, because our community has been there for us time and time again.
Chow Now’s stock depends on what has been donated, but there may be options available for pets with special dietary needs.
Gaffney says, if the SPCA doesn’t have it there, volunteers will help you find other resources.
The next time the pet pantry will be open is Wednesday, Nov. 29. It’s located at 516 West Wyoming Avenue.
If you have extra food, you can drop it off at the SPCA Cincinnati shelter on Conrey Road in Sharonville.