The Pope Memorial Humane Society – Cocheco Valley animal shelter in Dover is currently facing a critical shortage in its Pet Food Share program. This program is designed to assist residents in Strafford County and southern Maine who are struggling to meet the nutritional needs of their dogs or cats. By providing pet food to families in need, the shelter aims to prevent pets from being surrendered due to financial hardship.
Niki D’Alessandro, the shelter’s community engagement coordinator, emphasizes the importance of keeping pets with their families. She states, “Our goal is to keep pets in their loving homes. When pets remain with their families, everyone benefits. The owner isn’t forced to give up a cherished member of the family, the animal avoids the stress of transitioning to a shelter, and we can focus our resources on other animals in urgent need.”
Since last year, the shelter has seen an increase in families requesting assistance through the Pet Food Share program. D’Alessandro mentions that they have helped nearly 1,000 animals in 2024 alone. However, the shelter is currently running low on both dog and cat food, particularly in need of wet dog food and small bags of dry cat food. Donations of pet food are crucial to ensuring that the program can continue to support those in need.
There are several ways in which the community can help support the Pet Food Share program. One option is to make monetary contributions, which enable the shelter to purchase pet food at cost. Donations can be made directly through their website. Additionally, individuals can donate unopened bags or cans of dog and cat food either by dropping them off at the shelter or by purchasing and shipping them directly.
Raising awareness about the Pet Food Share program is also essential. By spreading the word to friends, family, coworkers, and on social media, more people can become aware of the program and contribute to its success. For more information about how to donate or get involved, individuals can visit the shelter’s website.
In conclusion, the Pope Memorial Humane Society – Cocheco Valley is in urgent need of support for its Pet Food Share program. By coming together as a community and providing donations of pet food or financial contributions, individuals can help ensure that pets in need receive the care and support they deserve. Let’s work together to keep pets with their families and prevent unnecessary surrenders to shelters.