The Empty Bowl program for pets

By Grant Cree

The Empty Bowl Pet Supply Program distributes pet food and supplies to low-income or in-crisis pet owners who need assistance to provide basic needs for their pet/s. The program was launched in March as a way for residents to help neighbours who are struggling to help their pets.

“When clients are in crisis or experiencing hardship, having to give up their pets would add that much more trauma to what they’re already experiencing,” said Kim Mills, Community Supports Navigator with the Town of Morinville. “This whole program is to make sure that those pets are safe and well cared for and stay with their families.”

Mills wants the community to be aware that this need exists and provide residents with a solution to help those in crisis through personal donations.

“If they’re looking to receive support, they go through me,” said Mills, who can be reached by email at community@morinville.ca.

“And if people want more information because they’re looking to donate, they can do so at the vet clinic,” said Mills, referring to the Morinville Veterinary Clinic.

Jessica Black is the Assistant Manager at Morinville Veterinary Clinic. She noted her team will gladly accept donations of dog food, cat food and cat litter on the condition the bags are sealed.

“Anybody can just swing by and drop it off, and that’s it,” said Black. “We don’t want people to be separated from their pets. That’s the worst thing. But unfortunately, if they can’t afford to feed themselves and their pets, we are trying to help out with that.”

Donations of pet food and pet supplies are accepted at the Morinville Veterinary Clinic at 9804 90 Avenue. For more information on The Empty Bowl Pet Supply Program, phone 780-939-7839 or email community@morinville.ca.