It’s dark out there.
I mean both literally (hello, The Long Dark of Seattle) and figuratively. We had an entirely different topic slated for this blog post, but as I write it on October 31st, it feels tone deaf.
So, I’m going a little off script in this one. Because, as Allie and I talked about recently on the podcast, the goal isn’t to sweep the darkness under the rug in the name of gratitude. We need to leave space for the dark to be, to exist, and to pass. The dark is normal.
And also, there is nothing normal about millions of people losing their ability to eat and feed their families.
There is nothing normal about the government workers who are showing up, day after day, without pay.
There is nothing normal about the astronomical increases in insurance rates that Americans are facing.
Which brings us to another darkness. Families are in positions that require them to make some really hard decisions right now, especially if they can’t afford basic necessities. This isn’t a moral failing. This isn’t something to be ashamed of. It’s just part of our reality right now.
What We’re Sitting With Right Now
This week, I’m looking at ways to help my community navigate food insecurity, to navigate a situation that is bombarding them with violence daily, and to support mutual aid. I’m grateful that this is something that I can do, and also mad as heck that this is what it is.
I know, I know, we’re an animal behavior and training business. We help families navigate the world with their pets. We help professionals navigate their cases with their clients. All of that is true… and, at our core, we care about welfare and well-being, and that includes humans.
So while talking about supporting your local food pantry or your local mutual aid may feel outside of what we do, I’ll let you in on a little secret–one that we at Pet Harmony believe deep in our collective souls–the human needs to be okay.
This isn’t a speciest thing. It isn’t a hierarchical thing.
The human is the one who makes things happen.
While we specialize in animal behavior and training, we take extra care to make sure our client is okay. I know my client’s pets have incredible advocates behind them, and I know that their guardians will give, and give, and give until they have nothing left.
At the end of the day, supporting the human is supporting the pet.
Community Care in Practice
So, if you’re like me and worried about what these financial pressures and dark days mean for pets and their people, here are some little ways that you can help your community. And if you’re someone who needs a little extra support right now, check out these resources:
1. Donate to your local pet food bank.
As community-centered sheltering grows, many organizations have added pet food pantries to their offerings. Search “pet food bank near me” and see what options are near you. Some will benefit from direct food donations, while others will be able to purchase more food with a monetary donation. And if you are someone who has some extra food lying around for a pet with dietary restrictions, that can be immensely helpful.
2. Donate to your local shelter.
Local shelters with programs dedicated to helping pets stay in the home when the person needs a little extra support can be a fantastic way to help your local community. Some shelters offer long-term boarding for families who want to keep their pets but need to relocate or seek long-term medical attention and don’t have a support system. Some shelters can connect families with low to no-cost behavior triage support. And some have the means to help with medical care. These programs can make a world of difference to help pets stay in their homes.
3. Engage with your local buy nothing groups.
Have extra dog beds, blankets, toys, or puzzles? Spread the love. Did you buy a GIANT bag of food because it was on sale, but it will go stale before you use it all? Divvy it into gallon bags and give it out to your local community. Did you find that your cat hates the new litter you bought? Give it to someone else whose cat may like it! Did you get a toy that your pet has no interest in using? One pet’s trash is another pet’s treasure.
4. Drop off packages at local food cupboards.
I’ve seen an increase in sidewalk food pantries in the last couple of years. They are entirely community-driven, supplied and supported by neighbors, and have a hyperlocal impact. If you see a food pantry on a walk with your pet, drop off some things people can use. Again, food is always great, but things like poop bags, chews, and potty pads can also be incredibly helpful.
5. Help a friend.
If you’re reading this blog and have a friend with a pet with challenges, or have a challenging pet yourself, then you know the weight it carries on a good day. You’d be surprised how much feeling seen, heard, and like having someone on your side can make a difference. So, don’t discredit what a difference you can make by being a safe person for your friend or neighbor. If you’re able to pet sit for a friend whose dog has separation anxiety while they go to work, or you’re able to be a safe stranger for their cat to get to know, it can alleviate so much stress.
I know it’s dark out there. But if there is one thing I know, it is that our clients, our mentees, and our community are incredible. So when you’re having a hard day, know you aren’t alone. You matter, your pet is lucky to have you, and we appreciate you.
Here’s to community,
Ellen
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