Animeals program feeds companions for local seniors
You know how animals provide just about the best companionship a human can find on the planet. Well, there are seniors in the area who rely on their dog or cat to keep them company and give them a reason to stay positive. But, they can’t always afford to feed them like they need.
Recognizing this important fact, Meals on Wheels North Central Texas started the Animeals program a few years ago and now delivers much-needed dog and cat food to more than 200 clients in Ellis, Johnson and Navarro Counties.
MOW Development Director Marni White says that many deliveries adds up to about 6,500 bags of pet food delivered each year, and all of it depends on donations from the public.
“A dog or cat is more than a pet — it can provide friendship, joy and a reason for living,” Marni says. “We discovered some clients were unable to afford pet food, so they were feeding their pets some of their own meals. We didn’t want our clients to risk hunger [because of] sharing their meals, but also didn’t want to see beloved companion pets go hungry either. So Animeals was created to fill that gap.”
Marni says studies show that among seniors, animal ownership lowers illness levels and mortality rates.
That’s why she’s calling on anyone on Waxahachie residents to help out with a donation of their favorite pet foods. You can drop off your donation at the MOWNCT office at 1311 Ferris Avenue in Waxahachie.
Or to make it even easier, the office has created an Animeals wish list on Amazon so all you have to do is pick your donation and complete the order, which will be shipped directly to the office.
Marni says the monthly pet food deliveries MOW makes are essential for keeping seniors and their animal companions in good health and enjoying life. Additionally, the Animeals program helps seniors to get the basic vet care for their dog or cat, such as yearly vaccinations, spaying or neuturing and flea treatment.
“We are always in need of donations,” Marni says.