Animal Control hosts free pet food distribution event
The COVID pandemic has caused much stress and uncertainty for Macomb County residents with many people experiencing financial hardship that not only affects them, but their pets as well. Macomb County Animal Control Chief Jeff Randazzo wants to make sure no one has to give up their beloved family pet because they can’t afford to feed it or pay for medical expenses.
“My focus for 2021 is pet retention and community engagement,” said Randazzo. “We know that people really do love their pets and we want to help them. Maybe getting some food or some medical care from us helps them get through until their situation improves.”
Macomb County Animal Control held its second Pet Food Pantry Day March 27 at its Clinton Township location. The drive-thru food distribution offered canned and dry dog and cat food as well as a wide array of pet treats for anyone in need. The food was donated by Pet Supplies Plus in Sterling Heights and Clinton Township.
The event was scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., but Randazzo decided to open the gates early at 9:30 a.m. Fifteen minutes later there was a line of cars waiting for supplies. Randazzo manned the treat cart, offering dog and cat treats to pet owners as they waited in line to access the drive-thru pet food pantry. Another animal control employee distributed information about low-cost animal micro chipping and dog licenses.
Randazzo said Macomb County Animal Control has seen an increase in pet owners surrendering their animals due to eviction or a sudden change in housing availability since the onset of COVID. He said separating a pet from its owner is traumatic and stressful for both the human and the animal.
“To rehome a pet that has lived with a family and become accustomed to that family, to me, is just heartbreaking,” said Randazzo. “As an organization, we have to figure out how we meet the needs of those pet parents so they can keep their pets.”
During the pandemic when many people have been quarantined, working from home or simply choosing to stay home and not socialize, the presence of a pet has become even more important for the mental health of the owners.
“I think in the very beginning of 2020 things were really uncertain and as things started to unfold, it was very unsettling for people,” said Randazzo. “I think that they found out their pets are the most comforting thing for all of this. We really rely on our faithful four-legged friends or whatever pets we have to bring us comfort in these scary times.”
Through donations and grants, Macomb County Animal Control has been able to keep its food pantry stocked and offer wellness treatment for pets. There is a pet wellness event that will include low cost vaccinations planned for June 26, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Freedom Hill County Park in Sterling Heights.
“Hopefully this fills a gap, helps people get through and reduces stress,” said Randazzo. “Because I think we are going to see in 2021 that people are going to really experience some financial hardship. As an organization, I think that we have to rethink how we are doing animal control. If there is something we can supply pet parents with — food, wellness, or a vaccination — we as an organization are trying to bridge those gaps for them so they have less stress.”
Residents who need help with feeding their pet, getting it microchipped or getting medical attention for it should reach out to Macomb County Animal Control at 586-469-5115 or animalcontrol@macombgov.org.