AARCS pet food bank in desperate need of donations

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A local animal rescue agency is in desperate need of donations to help fill their barren shelves for their pet food bank and to help families feed their furry family members.

Rachel Cote, director of programs at the Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society, said there has been a “significant” increase in demand for the non-profit’s services since last year.

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“So, in January and February this year, we saw a 103 percent increase in the number of requests,” he said.

And the month of March was no different for the AARCS team — they served nearly 200 families and over 350 animals.

“At the moment we are looking for monetary donations – we have several partners where we can buy food at bulk prices – or donations of goods such as dog and cat kibble, wet food, canned food, litter , things like that,” Cote said.

Open food bags as long as they are labeled and taped shut are also acceptable.

“Toys, leashes, used litter boxes — as long as they’re in good condition and clean, we can take them.”

The facility buzzes with activity as volunteers do laundry, clean cages, and assist with the emotional and physical well-being of the pets in their care. Cote walked past the kennels of dogs of all ages, breeds, and temperaments, as she explained that AARCS is a rescue agency that also does adoptions, foster homes, and oversees community support programs such as of their pet food bank.

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“We also have a spay and neuter program for our First Nations communities that we help,” he added.

AARCS aims to keep pets in their homes

Cote believes the increase in pet care costs is one of the factors contributing to the demand for their services.

“I think the economy has a lot to do with it; a lot of people are seeing rent increases, they’re struggling, they’re making decisions between buying groceries for themselves and feeding their pets,” he said.

There are approximately 110 animals in care at the AARCS facility in Calgary alone.

“Overall, right now we have about 600 animals — so that’s between our facilities in Calgary and in Edmonton, and our foster homes across the province.”

At the end of the day, Cote said the organization’s goal is to keep families together, and keep pets in their homes.

“Pets are really important to families, and just because someone needs a little help doesn’t make them a bad pet owner. I think that’s really important to know.

“This is the pet food bank that we really need help with; we have a lot of empty space on our shelves that we need to fill so we can continue to help some pets,” said Cote.

Donations to the AARCS pet food bank can be made online at aarcs.ca/donate or can be mailed to 5060 74 Ave SE

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