A new initiative has been introduced in Swanage, Dorset, to assist pet owners who are struggling with the rising costs of living— a dedicated dog food bank.
The service, located at the United Reformed Church on Swanage’s High Street, is designed to provide support for local pet owners in need, offering food to help care for their dogs and other pets. This pet food bank runs alongside the main Swanage Food Bank, ensuring that no pet goes unfed during these challenging times.
A Growing Need for Pet Food Assistance
Swanage’s new pet food bank marks the 13th such service in Dorset since January 2023, highlighting the increasing demand for help. A new collection point for donations has been established at Salt, a local gift shop opposite the library. These donations are then brought to the United Reformed Church, where they are integrated with the regular food donations from nearby supermarkets such as Co-op, Costcutters, Budgens, and Spar.
The initiative is spearheaded by Dorset Dogs, a not-for-profit community interest company dedicated to alleviating the pressure of pet food insecurity. With reports indicating that up to 50 pets a day across the UK are being surrendered due to owners’ inability to feed them, the food bank aims to provide a vital safety net.
Inspired by the Cost-of-Living Crisis
Nicky Merlin, an ambassador for the Dorset Dogs initiative, shared that the project was inspired by the cost-of-living crisis. She noted the increasing prevalence of food bins in supermarkets for families, but observed a lack of similar resources for pets. With the overwhelming response from rescue centers, which reported surging numbers of abandoned pets, Dorset Dogs launched the first pet food bank in Poole in January 2023. Merlin’s King Charles Spaniel, also named Merlin, has become the symbolic face of the campaign.
“We wanted to make sure all animals— not just dogs but cats, rabbits, and other small pets— could access food in times of need,” said Merlin.
Local Community Involvement and Growing Demand
The Swanage pet food bank has seen an increasing number of residents reaching out for assistance. One local resident, who had been traveling to the Poole pet food bank, was instrumental in highlighting the need for a similar service in Swanage. After discussions with Nicky, the Swanage dog food bank was established three months ago, and the demand has continued to grow.
In response to this demand, Dorset Dogs has launched a fundraising campaign to set up the 14th pet food bank in Dorset, this time in Wareham. The community is also encouraged to donate to the cause, with a £500 fundraising target aimed at stocking the new location.
Continued Support from the Community
Salt, the High Street shop, serves as the key drop-off point for pet food donations. The initiative has garnered substantial local support, with Swanage Food Bank spokesperson Ann noting that pet food is in high demand, particularly cat food. She emphasized that the food bank is open to anyone in financial hardship, including families, the elderly, and even young single men who are seeking support.
“People in Swanage love their pets. When times are tough, the thought of not being able to feed them can be heartbreaking,” Ann said.
The Swanage Food Bank operates every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, offering both collection and home delivery services to those in need. Local charities and services, including Swanage Medical Practice and Citizens Advice, refer individuals to the food bank to ensure they receive the assistance required.
As the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact communities, services like the pet food bank are becoming an essential resource for both people and their beloved pets.
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