Getting help for food, vet care, more

While the COVID-19 crisis has delivered some devastating economic blows, there is support for pet owners who are struggling financially. Resources are available for pet owners in need so that you and your pet can remain together in times of crises.

Here is a list of a few of the resources available that can help you or others who may be struggling to care for your four legged friends.

Pet food pantries

Humane Society Silicon Valley: Open to Santa Clara County residents. You must fill out an online application and be qualified to participate. Food is distributed every 30 days during designated hours: noon to 1 p.m. Thursdays, and 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. For more information, email [email protected] or call 408-262-2133 ext. 110.

East Bay SPCA: Drive-through pet food pantry held every other Friday from 11 a.m. to 1
p.m. or while supplies last, 410 Hegenberger Road, Oakland. Offers cat and dog food
to pet parents in need. Pet parents must stay in their car and wear a mask while driving
through.

Alameda Animal Shelter: Open to Alameda residents 10 a.m. to noon every second and fourth Saturday, 1590 Fortmann Drive, Alameda. Supplies are limited to up to
three dogs and three cats per family, and visits are limited to once a month per family.

Berkeley Humane: Open 10 a.m. to noon every Sunday, 2700 Ninth Street, Berkeley. Provides a two-week supply of dog or cat food on a first-come, first-served basis. Mask and social distancing required.

Furry Friends Food Relief (Antioch): Volunteer-run organization open 1 to 4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 708 W. Second Street in Antioch. Bring proof of
spay/neuter for each pet in the household and your ID. Supplies are limited, and visits are limited to once a month per family. Hours may be subject to change.

Contra Costa Humane Society: The “Animeals” program is a partnership with the Food
Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. You must contact the Food Bank to register for the
program – they can be reached at 925-676-7543 or 1-800-870-3663. They will give you
the list of requirements, which includes a valid form of ID, proof of address, and income
guidelines for household members. Pet food distribution sites are located in Martinez,
Pittsburg and Rodeo.

The Animal Connection (San Francisco): Open to San Francisco residents by appointment only. Email [email protected] to schedule an appointment. Please note they are low on donations so there may be a wait time.

Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF – Walnut Creek): The FoodShare program is open to
Contra Costa County residents. You must fill out an online application and be qualified to
participate. Pets must be spayed or neutered (certificate required), and proof of
household income and photograph identification are needed.

Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA (Burlingame): Open to San Mateo residents the
second Friday of each month at 1450 Rollins Road in Burlingame. You must register for
the pet food bank online. They provide for up to four pets per household. Email [email protected] for more information.