Dog food bank launched to help owners struggling to feed pet during cost of living crisis

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A doggy daycare and groomers have launched a life-line food bank to ensure pet owners do not have to resort to putting their beloved pooches into a rescue centre.Diane and Mikey Taylor, from Mucky Paws in Troon, have introduced a dog food bank to alleviate some pressure surrounding the cost of living crisis.Diane, who has been in business for 22 years, said she would hate for anyone to have to make the choice between feeding their furry friend or giving them up.She said: “It was constantly on the news recently about rescue centres being inundated with dogs because of people not being able to afford them anymore.“And I know there’s more to a dog than food- obviously there’s insurances and things- but I just thought if you’re helped out with food on a weekly basis then people can keep their dogs and put that money towards insurance or extra heating or whatever.“We’re in the fortunate position to work and be able to feed and insure our dogs, but there’s people out there who genuinely can’t do that.”Mucky Paws have increased their grooming costs by £1 with the extra quid being put towards buying in dog food.Diane said that supportive clients have even handed in donations to keep them stocked up and has asked customers to hold fire on further donations until January due to storage space.She said: “We’ve got a great clientele who are handing in food- we’re absolutely stocked with the stuff!“We’ve actually had to say to people ‘Can you hold off giving me any donations until January?’The Ayrshire Live app is available to download now.Get all the local news in your area – plus features, football news and the latest on the coronavirus crisis – at your fingertips 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and