Vernon Pet Pantry Collects 1,900 Pounds of Pet Food After Urgent Appeal

VERNON, CT — An urgent appeal for dog food has resulted in the collection of about 1,900 pounds of pet food for the Vernon Pet Pantry over the past two weeks.

The pantry had reported that its shelves were nearly bare of dog food after donations slowed during the summer vacation and back-to-school periods.

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The Vernon Pet Pantry was established in late 2024 in conjunction with the Hockanum Valley Community Council to collect dog and cat food for families struggling to feed their pets.

Thousands of pounds of pet food are collected and distributed each year through the pantry. Collection sites are located throughout Vernon, Bolton, Manchester and Tolland.

"The need for pet food continues and we hope that people will donate food on a regular basis," said Lisa Moody, a founder of the pantry. "When grocery shopping or going to a pet store, please consider picking up an extra bag or can of food and dropping it in a special collection bin for the pantry."

Moody said the pantry is grateful for the community response.

"We are so incredibly grateful for all the caring people who stepped up and donated dog and cat food over the last two weeks," she said. "Beloved pets will not go hungry because of the outpouring of support."

She acknowledged that rising food, gas and other costs are creating challenges for many families but said donations can help families and their pets.

"The need is great and so has been the response of those who so generously donated," Moody said. "On behalf of all of the volunteers at the pantry — a huge thank you."

Pet food donations can be made at collection sites including Coldwell Banker Realty in South Windsor, Dog Essentials in Vernon, First Congregational Church in Vernon, the Vernon Senior Center, The Pet Store Next Door in Bolton, Posh Pups in Tolland, ShopRite in Vernon, Stop & Shop locations in South Windsor and Vernon, Mellow Mutt in Manchester, The Proper Pet in Tolland, Ray Page Plumbing, Lazy Dog Salon and Daycare of Vernon, and Town and Country Vet in Vernon.