From Starvation to Salvation: How One Rescue Dog Inspired a Life-Changing Pet Food Pantry

In Glenwood, a dog named Arlo found himself in a tough situation. After being handed over by his family during a difficult time, he ended up lost in a neighborhood last fall. He was scared and hungry, making it hard for anyone to catch him. Eventually, a kind community member managed to bring him to safety. Sadly, by then, Arlo was in really bad shape. Despite the efforts of the Pope County Humane Society and emergency vets, he didn’t survive.

In memory of Arlo, the Pope County Humane Society is starting Arlo’s Pantry, a pet food pantry for families in need. Starting March 6, it will open every Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the new shelter location at 17584 195th Avenue in Glenwood.

Shauney Gloege, the president of the PCHS Board of Directors, emphasized the need to keep pets with their families. “Many people struggle financially, and that shouldn’t mean they can’t keep their beloved pets,” she said. Situations like job loss or divorce can happen unexpectedly, leading to tough choices about pet care.

PCHS’s goal is to support families and pets during these hard times. They want to help keep pets in homes rather than in shelters. Over the past few years, they’ve been listening to the community’s needs and have expanded programs to offer low-cost services and food assistance.

Another dog, Moana, came to PCHS last summer after being found malnourished. This prompted the organization to realize just how many families needed support. After Arlo’s case, it became clear that starting Arlo’s Pantry was essential for the community.

Arlo’s Pantry will provide food at no cost. There’s no pre-registration needed, just a simple information form on the first visit. For more information or questions, you can contact PCHSpets@gmail.com or visit their website at pchsmn.org.

To support Arlo’s Pantry, the PCHS welcomes donations of cat and dog food, as well as monetary contributions. Food can be dropped off at the Pope County Humane Society, open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. You can also give online at https://givebutter.com/ArlosPantry or mail checks to the shelter with “Arlo’s Pantry” noted in the memo.