Dog and cat owners across Ventura County can pick up free pet food and treats at a pantry the Canine Adoption & Rescue League opened at its thrift store in Ventura.
The pantry, at 2750 E. Main St., Suite B, operates Tuesdays and Fridays from noon to 2 p.m. while supplies last. No appointment is needed. C.A.R.L., a no-kill dog rescue that has served the county since 1996, soft-launched the pantry Tuesday, Sept. 8, as first reported by Patch.
The idea came from Governance Board President Claudia Hoste, who attended an event featuring a local food bank and saw social media posts from pet owners struggling with rising food costs.
"I thought, 'We need to do the same to support our animal community,'" Hoste said.
Governance Board Vice President Lupe Flores said the pantry can reduce owner surrenders. Executive Director Sharon Clark said it will serve as a resource for residents who might not be able to travel to other parts of the county for reduced-cost or free pet food.
The Santa Paula Moose Lodge No. 2097 provided a large donation to help stock the shelves, organized by lodge member Milo Bustillos. C.A.R.L. volunteers and donors have also contributed dog and cat food and treats since the soft launch.
Residents who want to donate unopened pet food can visit the organization's website at carldogs.org.
Upcoming community dates:
- C.A.R.L. Pet Food Pantry: Tuesdays and Fridays, noon to 2 p.m., 2750 E. Main St., Suite B, Ventura. Free, while supplies last.
- Moorpark Women's Club meeting: Friday, Oct. 9, Sycamore Room at Arroyo Vista Park, 4550 Tierra Rejada Road, Moorpark.
