Unlocking Hope: Inside Boston’s Pet Food Pantry – 7 Investigates for You!

OXFORD, MASS. (WHDH) – Rising grocery prices are affecting families in unexpected ways, including their pets. As costs climb, some families are struggling to keep food on the table, making it difficult to feed their furry companions as well.

Susan, who lives with multiple sclerosis, relies on her service dog, BoSox. He’s more than just a pet; he’s her support system. But ensuring BoSox has enough to eat isn’t always easy for Susan on her budget. Sometimes, she prioritizes his meals over her own.

“He does a lot for me, even when it’s tough for him. I want to give him the best care I can,” she shared.

To help manage these challenges, Susan turns to local food pantries. It seems she’s not alone. Food pantries across the state, like the Oxford Ecumenical Food Shelf, have started to add pet food to their services to meet the growing demand.

Christina St. Martin from the food shelf says many patrons inquire about food for pets. “One of the first questions is often about assistance for their dog or cat,” she explained.

The pet food is supplied by Second Chance Animal Services, which partners with over 20 organizations in the area. The need for pet food has surged since 2021, with requests skyrocketing by 485%. Lindsay Doray from Second Chance Animal Services emphasizes the difficulty people face: “Many are trying to balance feeding themselves and their pets, but for some, it’s just not possible.”

This significant rise in demand highlights a broader issue. According to a recent survey by the Pet Food Institute, about 25% of pet owners have reported difficulties affording food for their pets, a stark reminder of how financial strains can affect entire families, including pets.

As the demand continues to grow, Second Chance Animal Services is seeking more space to better serve the community. This situation calls for community awareness and support. Such initiatives make a real difference in the lives of both people and their pets in need.

For those looking to help, you can donate to Second Chance Animal Services [here](https://www.secondchanceanimals.org/donate/).

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