Hungry Paws Initiative provides pet food

Inspired by his wife and a friend after organizing a regular food drive, Derek Fox, owner of the Refined Pup in Mills River, decided it was time to do something for the animals. The “something” became the Hungry Paws Initiative.

“The goal of Hungry Paws is to provide pet food for homes that have to choose between feeding themselves or their pets. We don’t want people to surrender their animals to shelters because they cannot afford them right now.” says Fox. “The fund is intended to cover the needed window until people can go back to work or who need the support to get by. Until then, it’s up to us to provide for these wonderful animals.”

Fox got to work, contacting area rescues and finding other partners. Pet Source, a Hendersonville pet supply store, jumped on board, contacting their suppliers to set up a discounted purchasing program that will make the donated funds go even further.

The fund partners with Blue Ridge Humane Society, as both a recipient and distributer of funds and food to other rescues in the area with food support programs or that have a need in their community.

“The fund will help to set pet owners up for success and bridge the gap until folks are employed again or able to get ahead again.” said Angela Prod rick, Executive Director of Blue Ridge Humane. “This is even more vital during this time as there’s increased need as people are finding themselves in the new situation of needing help when they haven’t before, and we are here to help.”

There are several ways to donate to the fund. The Hungry Paws Initiative can be found on Facebook with an easy donation process, or online at therefinedpup.com. Donations can also be made to Blue Ridge Humane online at blueridgehumane.org or by mail to 14 Towne Place Drive, Suite 130, Hendersonville, NC 28792. Add a note designating the donation