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ARL begins Pet Food Pantry

T-R photo by Anna Shearer Shelly Nodland, executive director of the Marshalltown ARL, interacts with a dog at the shelter.

Pets can be a great comfort during the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only do they provide companionship that can be scarce because of social distancing, but they also keep spirits up despite uncertain situations.

Some people, however, may be struggling to care for their pets due to financial difficulty because of job loss. As Marshalltown proves again and again, residents will take care of their neighbors, including the furry ones.

The Marshalltown Animal Rescue League will start providing what they call the Pet Food Pantry. Beginning April 23, the pantry will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. Dog food and a limited supply of cat food will be available, and a month’s supply will be given at a time.

Shelly Nodland, executive director of the ARL, said the service is meant for people dealing with COVID-19-related financial difficulties, and she hopes they will take advantage of this service.

“The last thing we want is for them to have to surrender pets right now,” Nodland said. “So we want to help the community however we can.”

T-R photo by Anna Shearer Two cats cuddle at the ARL, which continues to be open during the COVID-19 pandemic.

She said there have already been several surrenders because of job loss, which she hopes can be prevented by the pantry.

For those concerned about going out in public during the pandemic, Nodland said they are taking all the necessary precautions. Staff will wear masks and gloves, and there will be minimum contact.

“They don’t even have to come in the building,” she said.

Nodland asks people to call when they arrive, as the doors are locked. Staff members will administer a questionnaire over the phone with simple questions such as name, address and income. This information will not be kept as ARL records but is simply for the grant provider.  Employees will also get information on the pet to know how much food is necessary.

The pet food has been purchased through a grant. Food that people donate to the ARL will continue to be used for the animals at the shelter and will not be given away.

Nodland said they have been happy to see so many animals adopted during this time, with very few dogs remaining at the shelter. She does, however, have a warning for prospective adopters.

“I just want people to really think ahead of what happens when I do go back to work?” she said.

Nodland said some pets may have separation anxiety after spending 24 hours a day with the owner. She recommends letting them get used to being alone.

Nodland expects there will be some surrenders from new adopters after they go back to work and find they do not have the time for a new pet anymore.

Marshalltown continues to care for its most vulnerable and show that the pandemic has not stopped the town from being a cohesive community.

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Contact Anna Shearer at ashearer@timesrepublican.com.

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