Unemployment has skyrocketed during COVID-19, and it’s left people struggling to place food on their tables. When cat parents can’t afford to feed themselves, they’re likely struggling to make ends meet for his or her pets as well.
For those who’re hurting, know you’re not alone. The ASPCA recently released recent data showing that greater than 4.2 million pets within the U.S. are more likely to enter poverty in the subsequent six months due to COVID-19.
“With the potential for a sustained national unemployment rate of 10%, the whole variety of animals living in poverty with their owners could rise to greater than 24.4 million dogs, cats, horses and other animals — a 21 percent increase within the variety of animals living in poverty in comparison with pre-COVID estimates [in February 2020],” says Jessica Sweeney, the senior program manager of ASPCA community engagement. “The variety of families who could also be struggling to look after their pets is staggering.”
Sweeney offers advice on finding resources should you need assistance feeding your cat, and nobody ought to be ashamed to ask for help.
Search for a food pantry
Local shelters are running food banks and pantries. Pet owners can google “pet food pantry near me” to search out one. Local shelters and veterinarians may also help point you in the suitable direction.
Photo: ©w-ings | Getty Images.
Keep an eye fixed out in aisles
Pet stores like PetsMart and Petco often have samples available within the aisles. You possibly can try stocking up on those to tide you over. In addition they could have coupons you need to use. For those who can’t find any, try calling your favorite kitty food vendor and explaining your situation. They might be willing to send you some coupons or free samples.
Don’t be shy
Asking for help will be emotional. You could feel inadequate because you can’t afford cat food or embarrassed to ask for help, but you shouldn’t. Organizations are here to assist.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for pet owners by straining essential owner resources and making it difficult for people to access the supplies and services they should look after their pets,” Sweeney says. “We imagine that pets and other people belong together; that financial circumstances alone aren’t reliable indicators of the capability to like and look after a companion animal.”
Featured photo: Chalabala | Getty Images
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