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By Mandy Haggerson
For the Clemmons Courier

The Humane Society of Davie County (HSDC) has found that even amidst COVID-19 there are many ways human families, and their furry members are greatly impacted by the pandemic. “We have a food pantry program that is available to our community that allows people to come and pick up dog or cat food,” says HSDC Executive Director Cathi Fruchterman. “We have always offered this service to our community; however, we are finding during COVID-19 the number of calls and emails that we receive has gone up significantly. For families that love their pets, and this helps take off a bit of financial stress, it allows them to keep their pets and the save money for other routine care for their animals, such as heartworm and flea and tick prevention, monthly medicines, etc.”

According to the National Institute of Health, 68% of Americans own at least one pet. The health benefits from having a furry companion are that they decrease stress, improve heart health, and even help children with their emotional and social skills. “We’ve been told by so many in our community that their pet has helped with anxiety and depression because their animal loves them unconditionally, gets them outside for walks which produces endorphins, and has helped to counter sitting around during a pandemic with little social outlets. We want to do our part to support our community as everyone bounces back from COVID-19 by offering our food pantry service. We are fortunate to have quality food donated to us from people in the community and generous pet stores like Pet Supplies “Plus” off Reynolda Road in Winston-Salem,” explains Fruchterman.

Aside from advertising their food pantry dates on social media channels, Fruchterman has reached out to local groups that are helping families already to spread the word. “Groups like the Davie High Hunger Fighters that are out in the community already working with families with their food-based ministry are ones that we have also reached out to and let them know how we can also help their patrons. It is all about everyone doing their part to help our community during challenging times,” reflects Fruchterman. “We have regularly scheduled food pantry times, however, if anyone would like to reach out to schedule a time that is more convenient for them, we do make appointments as well.”

If you or someone you know would like to request some dog or cat food from the HSDC food pantry, contact them at foodpantry@hsdavie.org. The next upcoming scheduled food pantry time from 6-8 p.m. on Feb. 22 and from 10 a.m.-noon on Feb. 23. HSDC is located at 1469 N. Main Street in Mocksville.