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By Mandy Haggerson

For the Enterprise

The Humane Society of Davie County has found that amidst COVID-19 there are many ways human families and their furry members are impacted.

“We have a food pantry 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; 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 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 percent of Americans own at least one pet. The health benefits from having a furry companion are decreased stress, improved heart health, and emotional and social skills for children, the institute reported.

“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 outlet,” said Fruchterman. “We want to do our part to support our community as everyone bounces back from COVID-19 by offering our food pantry. We have quality food donated from people in the community and generous pet stores.”

Aside from advertising food pantry dates on social media, Fruchterman has reached out to local groups helping families 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 reached out to and let them know how we can help their patrons. It is all about everyone doing their part to help our community during challenging times. 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.”

To request dog or cat food from the pantry, contact them at foodpantry@hsdavie.org. The next scheduled pantry time is Feb. 22 from 6-8 p.m. and Feb. 23 from 10 a.m.-noon.  HSDC is at 1469 N. Main St. in Mocksville.