Animal protection group holding pet food drive

A Clovis animal protection organization is seeking help from residents to donate at the pet food drive to help local animals and households in need.

Since the Sept. 3 fire that closed Clovis’ Walmart, High Plains Humane Society has reported local pet families have been in high demand to find affordable means in getting pet food. Linda Cross, president of the organization, said HPHS usually maintains a pet food pantry for emergencies and to assist struggling households so they can continue to feed their pets while they get through financial hardship.

“We were fat and happy for a while there and then that (the fire) happened with Walmart and it’s (the pet food) been flying out the door,” Cross said.

Cross said since the Walmart fire the sanctuary has experienced an influx of families stopping in for pet food, which has completely “depleted” their pet food pantry. She said HPHS usually receives pet food through donations from the community or through sponsors. However, she said they haven’t been able to replenish at the same rate as the demand.

With what little supply of pet food they have, Cross said the sanctuary had to alter the amount of food they’re able to provide to lower-income families. She said they can only give out so much to their community.

“Instead of handing out big bags, we’ve broken it down into gallon bags so there would be enough to go around … We can only donate food when we have donations on hand to give,” Cross said.

HSPS works to reduce animal cruelty, exploitation and neglect within Curry County and surrounding areas, said Cross. The charity organization is requesting donations of dry or canned dog, cat, puppy and kitten, or all stage food.

Individuals who would like to donate can drop off the pet food at the HPHS building at 608 W. 21st St., between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday or call 575-781-2572 to arrange a drop off or pick up.

Madison Willis writes about animals for The Eastern New Mexico News. To suggest a story or nominate a “Pet of the week,” contact her at: [email protected]