Salisbury Foodbank in Wiltshire has reported a dip in pet food donations over the summer, with some owners reportedly choosing to feed their animals before themselves. The food bank is currently running low on dog and cat food and is appealing for donations.
Maria Stevenson, manager of Salisbury Foodbank, noted that pet food is an additional service, and she often observes "older clientele" prioritising their pets' needs. Vicky Bye, a pet owner, shared her experience of facing financial hardship where she had to choose between feeding her animals, paying her electric bill, or feeding herself, highlighting the vital role pet food banks play.
Bath Cats and Dogs Home, which supplies surplus pet food to food banks, has also experienced a decrease in dog food donations. Hayley Crymble, education and outreach manager at the home, suggested this reflects the impact of financial and cost of living crises on donations, noting that dog food is often more expensive for supporters to donate.