Carolyn Head’s 13-year-old Yorkie, Dixie Belle, isn’t just a pet; she’s family. Through knee replacement surgery and daily life, Dixie Belle has been Head’s constant companion, providing comfort and support. But with sporadic work as a substitute teacher, Head faced financial strain, making it difficult to afford pet food consistently.
Her solution came from the Don’t Forget To Feed Me Pet Food Bank in Fort Worth, the sole provider of pet food assistance in North Texas. Director Maria Koegl highlighted the growing demand, citing a 35% increase in requests over the past year. This surge, she explained, is largely driven by rising inflation and economic challenges faced by pet owners.
“We receive urgent requests from our partners every month, needing extra food to meet the escalating needs of struggling families,” Koegl remarked, emphasizing the heartbreaking choices some face between buying food for themselves or their pets.
The impact is profound, especially among elderly pet owners like Carolyn Head, for whom pets are not just companions but essential parts of their lives. Koegl stressed the importance of ensuring that no pet goes hungry, preventing owners from having to make the devastating decision to give up their beloved animals due to financial hardships.
For Carolyn Head and Dixie Belle, the support of the pet food bank means more years of cherished companionship. It’s a lifeline that ensures pets remain well-fed and loved, despite the economic pressures facing their owners.
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