The first pet food bank has been launched in Dorset, by Dorset Dogs, a Community Interest Company.

The Pet Food Bank at Canford Heath Community Fridge has been set up to allow pet owners who may be struggling to afford food take what they need.

The initiative has been launched in response to the cost-of-living crisis, as people across the country are looking to save money and cut costs.

The Association of Dogs and Cats Homes surveyed more than 60 shelters across England, and found that 92 per cent have seen an increase in people wanting to surrender a dog compared to pre pandemic levels, and 88 per cent saw an increase for cats.

Dorset Dogs are planning to build a network of Pet Food Banks across Dorset, with each being run on a trust basis, that only those in real need will take what they need.

They hope that the Dorset community will donate pet food to the bank.

Donations can be dropped off for the pet food bank at Canford Heath Community Fridge or at Café Riva in Southbourne. Dorset Dogs also run some pick ups of donations.

For more information, visit: https://dorsetdogs.com/food-bank