Happy paws food bank is ‘purr-fect’!

A local couple say they have been ‘blown away’ by the response to their pet food bank.

In December, the Horncastle News revealed how Gem and Dan Colson had launched Happy Paws Pet Food Bank to help struggling pet owners.

Since then, they have been overwhelmed by donations from the public and pet food companies.

In fact, the couple revealed some cats and dogs are even helping out...by donating their paw-ket money!

And this week, the couple appeared on BBC when they were praised for their amazing efforts.

Gem said: “It’s been such a challenging year for everyone and we set up the pet food bank as a way to help the anyone in the local community who may be struggling during this uncertain time.

“We cover Horncastle, Wragby, Bardney, Woodhall Spa and all the surrounding villages.”

The couple both work and have their own pets, including rescue and foster dogs.

They have helped over 100 people, including many families.

They expect demand to grow over the coming weeks.

Posting on their Facebook page, the couple thanked everyone who had helped, adding: “Running a pet food bank isn’t easy but it’s worth the long days we put in.

“It’s worth it to make a difference to families and to make sure pets never go without...not that their lovely families would let them but if it’s one less worry for a few weeks then we’ve done what we set out to do.

“We say it all the time but we couldn’t do any of this without your donations, large and small.

“They all add up to one thing, no empty bowls just happy pets and happy pet parents and we all make a difference together.

“We’re so grateful for all of the support we’ve had.”

One owner Gem and Dan have helped is Glen Hilton and his cat ‘Felix.’

He told the BBC :“Over Christmas, I had no food, no money, I was desperate. I needed food for Felix and food for myself, I was really struggling.

“I received enough cat food for two weeks, some treats and biscuits for Felix.

“I was overwhelmed. It reduced me to tears because someone cared, it was heaven-sent.”

Donations are always welcome and items needed include wet and dry dog food, wet and dry cat food. loose tins and sachets, any pet food that still in date. dog treats, dog coats, collars, leads and unused toys.

•There are several collection points including Greenan Cycles in Horncastle and Bonafide Pet Supplies in Bardney. They also have an Amazon wish list.

• Find Happy Paws Pet Food Bank on Facebook or email [email protected]