Companions Animal Center has spent about $5,000 so far this year on dog food. That might not sound like a lot, but when the nonprofit usually spends zero in that category, it is.

“This is the first time we actually had to purchase dog food,” said Vicky Nelson, CAC development director. 

She said that for years, pet food donations have covered their needs. Those donations, however, have declined to a point not seen in two decades.

Nelson said they typically receive daily food contributions to their outside drop box. But recently, a week passed with none. 

“We ran out of food last week,” Nelson said. 

CAC even had to turn people away from its free food pantry. Storage shelves for donated pet food were empty. 

“That has never happened to us before,” Nelson said. 

She worries some won’t be able to feed their pets, which could lead them to being surrendered. 

Nelson said they don’t want to see that happen. 

“If the cost to feed your animal is the only barrier to keep your animal, we want to help. We want people to keep their animals,” Nelson said. “If price of food is an issue, we’re here to help.” 

CAC has about 50 dogs under its roof and goes through 100 pounds of food per day. It currently has 22 puppies in foster care, which are also fed with shelter food. 

The pet food pantry, available once a month to prequalified clients, has seen a 20% increase since last year in people needing assistance with feeding their pets. There are 75 families registered and 42 of those showed up this month. 

People often drop off large bags of dog food or order it online for CAC. To maintain consistency, it tries to provide Pedigree for adult dogs, Purina for puppies and kittens and Kirkland for adult cats 

But donations of other brands are welcome. When the building is closed, donations can be left at the bin on the south side of the building. When open, bring them in the front door. 

“We take it all,” Nelson said.  

Check out the pet pantry wish list at www.companionsanimalcenter.org.