Pet Retention and Support

Pets are family, and families belong together. Some families who are struggling to care for their beloved pets may think surrendering them to a shelter is the only option available during difficult times. At Animal Friends, we never want to see a family face that decision when there may be alternatives available.

Our Pet Retention department – made up of our Chow Wagon Pet Food Bank and Friends for Life program – supports struggling pet owners with resources and referrals that can help them keep their pets at home where they belong.

Friends for Life helps connect pet owners with access to affordable veterinary care and other needed pet resources.

The Chow Wagon Pet Food Bank provides pet food to families in need to help keep their pets’ bowls full.

How to Help

Our Pet Retention programs provide veterinary care and pet food to hundreds of financially struggling families each month, but we can’t continue serving our community without your help! Our programs run entirely on donations from the community and the need for support exceeds the resources that are available. There are many ways you can contribute to our Pet Retention program and support local families in need:

  • Drop off unopened bags or cans of pet food, treats, litter or other supplies in the lobby of our Resource Center. Any brand or formula is accepted, small to medium bags are preferred!
  • Drop off other donations of new and gently used pet supplies for our Resale store – proceeds directly benefit our lifesaving work. Click here for a list of items we accept.
  • Order items from our Amazon Wish List or Chewy.com Wish List – they’ll be delivered right to our door.
  • Make a monetary donation to benefit Animal Friends’ Chow Wagon Pet Food Bank – every dollar provides 4 meals for a pet in need!

Host a food and supply drive

Food and supply drives are a great way to help the Chow Wagon Pet Food Bank and engage fellow community members in the cause! If you have questions before you start the process or need any supplies (boxes, flyers), contact Liz Moser at 412.536.3885 or EMoser@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org.

To schedule a supply drive donation drop-off date and time, please contact Liz Moser at 412.536.3885 or EMoser@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org.

Volunteer with us

If you want to help make a tangible difference in the lives of people and pets, let us know! We are looking for dedicated and compassionate volunteers to help deliver resources to those who need them most. Click here to submit your application.