Food Stamps for Pets? You Bet!

Wednesday, February 27, 2013 - 11:00am
Hungry dog

A new donation-based program called Pet Food Stamps wants to ensure that furry members of low-income families receive the pet food they need. The new program is open to anyone in the United States, and already more than 45,000 pets are registered, Marc Okon, the program’s founder and executive director, told ABC News.

Approved applicants to the program receive pet food from the retailer Pet Food Direct for six months, Okon says.

The program does not receive federal funding. “Should the government be willing to provide assistance further down the line, we will look into it,” Okon told ABC News.

Approximately 46.6 million people used the federal food stamp program in 2012, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Do you think food stamps for pets are a good idea?

Tags: 
Pet Care

Comments

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:21 — Lisa Peters (Visitor)
Yes

Sun, 03/03/2013 - 20:09 — Mary Gouker (Visitor)
I think that is a wonderful idea A lot of people have pets and need help especially when we just had Hurricane Sandy and money was tight for people . Thank you

Sun, 03/03/2013 - 22:22 — Mary (Visitor)
This is something we need. I lost my job over a year ago, now we are living on my husbands social security of less than $14,000 a year. We need help.

Mon, 03/04/2013 - 11:37 — rebecca (Visitor)
I agree and want to know where to sign up!

Thu, 03/07/2013 - 16:19 — Jennifer De Cangi (Visitor)
I sure do! Especially because alot of people who are NOW low income families probably had pets before they became that way...and feeding their pet may become a challenge and as a result, lead them to put them up for adoption...SO, but doing this, it will help these families keep the pet that they love and care for! :)

Fri, 03/15/2013 - 11:28 — SHARRI SLATE (Visitor)
THIS HAS BEEN NEEDED A LONG TIME. MORE ANIMALS WILL FIND HOMES WITH ACCESS TO FOOD

Fri, 03/15/2013 - 11:30 — Sharri Slater (Visitor)
We also need access to cheaper medications and vaccines

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:21 — sarah bssisso (Visitor)
Absolutely a great idea

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:22 — Nicole Seay (Visitor)
I do, I think it's a lovely Idea. I think the love and joy that a pet can bring to someones life should be cherrished and if you can help someone out in a way to feed their forever pet that is truly a blessing and a most generous offer to low income families.

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:23 — julisa soberanis (Visitor)
Yesssss awesome

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:23 — Gail Luckenbaugh (Visitor)
That sounds like a really good idea,thank you!!

Mon, 03/04/2013 - 11:41 — rebecca (Visitor)
I know right why would anyone have a problem helping anyone? I know many idiotic conservatives want to believe the only people pulling food stamps or any 'welfare' are drug addicts or lazy people but for most of us, yes "us", that's not the case. I am neither a drug addict (or addict of anything), or lazy I am a single UNEMPLOYED mother who owns a small online business, works part time as a tutor, and goes to school full time, but for nearly 20 years have had to have 'welfare' because I have never made above the poverty line! I would LOVE to not have to pull 'welfare' but it's live with family and get food stamps and medicaid or life under a bridge somewhere going hungry.

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:25 — Nancy Ioele-Santos (Visitor)
I think it is a great idea, but I'm not so sure the public would go along with government funding. Too many people don't even want other PEOPLE to get food stamps. I'm all for helping the animals stay fed tho. Thanks to the originator of the program.

Thu, 02/28/2013 - 15:25 — Lenora King (Visitor)
it is odd and somewhat shameful, but the very people that don't support food stamps for humans have no problem with it for animals.

Sun, 03/03/2013 - 20:44 — leah (Visitor)
Obviously there are many differences between pets and humans. One of the most obviously relevant in my view in this particular situation is that humans actually have some control over their fate and have the gift of free will. For instance, a person can decide on a whim to get a pet without any consideration to what would happen to the pet should said human fall on hard times. In fact, many of those same humans have the same lack of forsight with regard to bringing HUMAN babies into this world. Until people start taking responsibility for their actions and thinking through important decisions (ie, choosing to take on the responsibility of a LIVING THING, no matter what life may throw their way) we will continue to have millions of homeless pets. I think it is admirable that people are kind hearted enough to help out families who need help feeding their pets. Food stamps are supposed to be a way to help people get back on their feet. Not to be a lifestyle. Bravo to those who are helping the helpless animals.

Mon, 03/04/2013 - 14:04 — Holly G. (Visitor)
I agree with much of what you say except for one thing. You say that "a person can decided on a whim to get a pet without any consideration to what would happen to the pet should said human fall on hard times." I must say that anyone can fall on hard times. You, me, even a millionare could. So with that logic then should no one ever get a pet? No one knows the future, especially their own. Sure you can save money, but who knows how much you can save before something happens to you. I agree that no one should get a pet on a whim, but in fact plan for one. The problem is you can only plan so much for the future.

Mon, 03/04/2013 - 11:43 — rebecca (Visitor)
in a perfect world your views would be right but some of us no matter how hard we try can't make enough to take care of our selves or our families and HAVE to get food stamps...and it's not that we have fancy cars, expensive IPHONES, etc..we just don't even make enough to be above the poverty line.

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:26 — Amy (Visitor)
I absolutely love pets, I have 2 dogs and I love them dearly. They are members of my family. Having said that, I think having a pet is a big responsibilty and part of that is being able to afford to feed them. If you know you cant, then you dont need to have pets. Food stamps in general are meant to help those who need temporary assistance. It has become a way of life for many however, due to irresponsiblity and poor life choices. I think food stamps for dogs addresses the same issue of irresponsiblity. 47 million Americans on food stamps is utterly ridiculous. We need to get these people working and paying for their own way, so they can have a pet or two and take care of them responsibly as well.

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:50 — DaveJ (Visitor)
That's the kicker, though. trying to find work in this country is increasingly difficult. I think the focus DOES need to be on job creation, and responsibilty is good also. But you can't judge people unworthy of having a pet that are poor. Some of those less fortunate arrived at that situaion in the last 4 years and already have pets. And if they're anything like me, they aren't going to be dumping them at a shelter.

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 16:55 — MsKat (Visitor)
And also, it has to be cheaper to donate some food to the pets than to have to house and care for them in a shelter and try to adopt them out. That pet might be the only thing someone has to help motivate them to look for work until they find something.

Sun, 03/03/2013 - 20:49 — leah (Visitor)
pardon me for this politically incorrect observation but... people who are too poor to feed themselves should not go out and get pets. This is not a judgement, it's common sense. And, how have we gotten to a place where someone who points this out is the heartless one rather than the person who dumps a pet at a shelter six months in to having it. Personal responsibility has become grossly underrated.

Sun, 03/03/2013 - 21:51 — Judy (Visitor)
I'm sorry, but to say you're not being judgmental with your comment is just lying to yourself. The economy today has a lot more folks in dire straits than ever before. People who were making plenty of money to support themselves and then some, now find themselves without jobs or with pay cuts because their employer is making cuts to save jobs and the company. These are the majority of folks who need help caring for their animals. Yes, there are some who have taken on an animal when they can't afford it, but even that single fact should not bring a lecture about not putting themselves in a bad financial situation, since many folks will keep an animal for a pet rather than surrender it to the pound to be euthanized. I therefore strongly and respectfully disagree with you.

Sun, 03/03/2013 - 22:07 — Anna (Visitor)
Job creation is not the government's obligation, nor is it something it can do by acting - every action it takes reduces jobs, no matter the 'intent'. Job creation happens by individuals when government gets the heck out of the way. I am saddened that it does not occur to people to create their OWN job. On three occasions in my life, when I could not find employment due to economic or health reasons, I started a business - problem solved. Yes, it means working eighty(and often many more) hours a week. Yes, it means starting tiny and living frugally, at least in the beginning - but it is the means of taking responsibility for one's own sustenance and future, and perhaps someday providing or more others with a job. And yes, I'm one of those who *do not* approve of food stamps for people. If people food stamps were run as this is, on a voluntary contribution basis, I would have no problem with it - and I think the pet food thing is great! I'm aware that people can fall on hard times, and don't believe that their companion animals should suffer for things the pet cannot control or even influence. Some people NEED that companion animal for their mental/emotional health. My problem with people food stamps is that donating is NOT voluntary, it's money extorted from others at the threat of imprisonment for non-compliance. Before you cast aspersions on my 'cold-hearted' nature, know that it the past three years we have donated 720lbs. of beef,hundreds of dozens of eggs and bushels of fresh vegetables to the local Womens' Shelter, Childrens' Home and food pantry. Voluntarily, it feels good - when forced to by government, it's wrong.

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 16:48 — lisa abankwa (Visitor)
i agree with you about not being able to afford pets but if it is run on donations i think it would be great,i could afford my 2 cats and dog till i got sick and was ill for 5 yrs,i gave up my med's to afford pet food and many people asked why i did not give them up,there my family,i loved them and they were the reason i got out of bed,the reason i lived and fought to get better,but if you cant work i agree dont get a new pet,if you dont have a job,dont get a new pet,but if you fall on hard times from NO fault of your own then i think the help should be there......just my thought!

Fri, 05/17/2013 - 05:48 — Francesca (Visitor)
"Rolling eyes", I am sort of offended by people here making judgments on poor people for having a pet. I live in low income housing in a building that allows pets. There are many people who own a pet, don't work because of disabilities and take very good care of their pets. Why do people think they have to make judgments on other people's way of life and what they choose to do?

Mon, 03/04/2013 - 11:46 — rebecca (Visitor)
so you love pets but don't want to help people? how sad we wouldn't have 47 million underpaid people (i.e. people on food stamps) if we had more jobs and better pay. Many of us on food stamps and other government assistance would LOVE even part time (regular) work much less a full time job....but jobs are next to impossible to find and the few that are out there the people hiring for them are beyond picky..I have been out of work for over 2 years and before that it had been about 5 since I had a full time job...not for lack of trying either

Mon, 03/04/2013 - 14:11 — Holly G. (Visitor)
It is not always irresponsibility and poor life choices that makes a person or animal need help. Imagine this, you're with a company for years, great job, great benifits, and not living above your means. You already have pets that are a part of your family, who you love immensly. Then suddenly the economy goes and you and a bunch of other people get laid off. What next? YOu might have some money saved up for rainy days, you might have to cash in that 401K or stocks to live off of. The question is how long will that last, even with extreme budgeting? Should you give up these pets, these family members that you love so much and put them in a shleter? No, you took them on just like a child as a responsiblity. So now you need some help to make the money last longer because it could be well over a year before you find another job. That, is not the case with every person but I have heard many similiar stories like this one. Please think on that before you judge every person who needs help.

Mon, 03/04/2013 - 14:11 — Holly G. (Visitor)
It is not always irresponsibility and poor life choices that makes a person or animal need help. Imagine this, you're with a company for years, great job, great benifits, and not living above your means. You already have pets that are a part of your family, who you love immensly. Then suddenly the economy goes and you and a bunch of other people get laid off. What next? YOu might have some money saved up for rainy days, you might have to cash in that 401K or stocks to live off of. The question is how long will that last, even with extreme budgeting? Should you give up these pets, these family members that you love so much and put them in a shleter? No, you took them on just like a child as a responsiblity. So now you need some help to make the money last longer because it could be well over a year before you find another job. That, is not the case with every person but I have heard many similiar stories like this one. Please think on that before you judge every person who needs help.

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:27 — Amanda (Visitor)
I think it is a fantastic idea! Many might say, well if you can’t afford it, don’t have a pet. But those ppl do not understand the happiness a pet can bring to your life. I am all for this idea! Help our lil furry friends out!!

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:27 — Darlene (Visitor)
I am one that has to do my best to make it living in poverty. I am on disability and a very limited income. Less than $1000 a month. I have 3 fur babies and there are times that I don't buy food to make sure my animals have what they need. This is an awesome program for any that can get it

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:28 — Angela (Visitor)
YES!

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:28 — Ty (Visitor)
I understand that a pet can bring a lot of joy to people's lives but if you know you are in a financial circumstance that will make it a struggle to care for a pet, maybe you should think twice before adopting one.

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:49 — Angela (Visitor)
Some people lose their jobs and don't want to give up their pets or see them starve. I was fortunate to have family to help me out with my dog when I lost my job.

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 20:54 — Alyce Cato (Visitor)
I've had my dogs long before I became ill and unemployed. Should I re-home them? I care for them enough to want what's best for them. but should they go hungry if no one else wants them? They're my fur children.

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:28 — Laurie Buell (Visitor)
I think this is a good idea, how do I apply for Pet Food Stamps?

Tue, 03/05/2013 - 18:35 — sarah cox (Visitor)
i recieve foodstamps myself and i am unemployed.i find it difficult to provide food for my animals at times

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:28 — Joe Walton (Visitor)
I think a privately funded program is a great idea....but this isnt something our government needs, or can afford to do. Lets hope people dont abuse this wonderful program and only those who truly need it, apply.

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:28 — Dawn (Visitor)
I think it's a great idea BUT I hope there is a process to be qualified. I think it's a great opportunity for the elderly, who more often than not have a pet and that is thier only companion an friend.

Thu, 02/28/2013 - 11:55 — Melissa (Visitor)
I agree that there should be a process..there are soo many people who get regular food stamps and don't need them. I also think that they should make sure the money only goes on pet food or other pet essentials!

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:29 — Denise Crawford (Visitor)
yes ,, i can see many good things to come from such . an pet can make many long lonesome days way better , and manyweith out , might choose just to fully give in and give up ,, a pet helps the days go smoother

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:29 — melisha jones (Visitor)
I do feel that this would be a great idea, I know there are many people out here that have animals and really love them and want to do what it takes to take care of them. But I also know personally what it is like to hit hard times and not have the means to financially take care of them the way that we want to. Why should someone not be able to have the love and joy of pet ownership simply because they cannot afford the food all the time. Elderly people who live alone are comforted by the companionship of an animal and they may not have one because they cannot afford to feed or care for it not because they wouldnt. How does one apply for this program by the way?

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:30 — Carolyn G Moon (Visitor)
It's an idea that will cut down on surrenders and abandonment

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:30 — Terry Albert (Visitor)
hell YES

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:30 — Jessica (Visitor)
With so many irresponsible people out there, this will encourage irresponsible people to adopt pets, even the ones who cannot afford, hoping to get donations to support their pets. But what about vet care, vaccines, other responsibilities that require money to deal with?? This is not good news for the pets from these families when they need more care other than food and water!

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:31 — Kim Livingston (Visitor)
YES!!!!! Just because someone has a lower income DOES NOT mean they shouldn't have pets because they can't afford them! If you are willing to love a pet (adopt preferably!), and take care of them for their ENTIRE life then you should be able to have one and get help paying for them if necessary! Yahoo! Let's home some of our strays and rescues!!!!

Mon, 03/04/2013 - 01:46 — Sylvie (Visitor)
Families hit hard times, and this is an Amazing initiative. It does not however, cover a subsidized life of a pet if one cannot afford to care for one BEFORE they take on that lifetime responsibility. Vet care, Grooming, vaccines, pet lisc: A pet is a life LONG commitment. Applause! For this new safety net for hard times. I don't think it is realistic to assume this program "Enables New Pet Ownership". It is just irresponsible to get an animal if you enter that responsibility, needing programs and others to care for the life of a pet. It sounds like you misinterpreted the point? This program assists with 6 mo of emergency need pet food- Not a lifetime of all the additional costs. It IS irresponsible to go into pet parenting, without the intent and resources to provide for their needs. (Grooming for 2, every 6 weeks: $90. Vaccines & Health Certificates for 2 pooches was $500. Eyes Open. Pets ARE a family budget item.) But what an Amazing!! Program to help owners on hard times. Thanks So Much to all the companies participating!

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:31 — yael (Visitor)
It might reduce the amount of pets ending up in a shelter. Great idea!

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 17:00 — mickie (Visitor)
i completely agree, because that's exactly where many end up.

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:35 — Carissa (Visitor)
The people who tell you "if you can't afford it don't have a pet" are the same people telling you not to dump your dog at a shelter the second you fall on hard times. Complete contradictions. I lost my job in November and have been unable to find work. Should I have to surrender my dog because my employment status changes? I don't believe so. This is a great way to help struggling pet owners.

Wed, 02/27/2013 - 15:36 — Dorothy Gail Bruner (Visitor)
I am low income and am trying to find out how to sign up for this program?

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