Lockdown measures around the globe seem to share two things in common. First, nationwide social distancing does seem to curb the rate of infection. Second, everyone staying inside does cause economic strains for almost everyone.
As unemployment numbers soar even in the world’s richest countries, the impact of financial losses have spread to the beloved cats and dogs. As any pet owner can tell you, growing a pet with love is no cheap task. Thus, pet owners are queueing up as pet food banks open up around the United States.
On Thursday, dozens of cars lined up as volunteers set up a drive-thru food bank for pet food. This particular one was set up at the Pet Adoption and Protection Center in Florida.
The organizers of this event was the local Miami-Dade Animal services. It was the second event after many pet owners showed up for the first event. Equipped with masks and gloves, many owners showed up – quite often with the eventual beneficiary sat right next to them.
The volunteers were also well-prepared with the personal protective equipments (PPEs). While adhering to social distancing measures, volunteers helped load a big bag of pet food for each of the cars that showed up.
The benefactors of the event was the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty. State and municipal police forces provided logistical support and helped keep the situation under control. With the help of these groups, food banks have been aiding pet owners in the state of Florida get through this crisis.
Some organizations like Passion for Paws are taking the support one step further. Owners who need to take their pets to the vet but are short in cash may receive financial support from them. Passion for Paws said they are willing to cover for both regular exams and emergency treatments.
Different benefactors and organizers have been arranging similar events all over the US. In Pittsburgh, a crowd of 1,000 showed up when a similar event was organized. In Maryland, food banks that regularly help people have began to take care of pet food as well.
In tough times like these, it is easy to forget that humans are not the only ones that are struggling to go through. We thank the organizers who are helping everyone.
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