by ELLIE ROMANO, WCYB
PINEY FLATS, Tenn. (WCYB) – Some homebound residents in the Tri-Cities are having trouble affording the costs of feeding their pets.
Now, a local veterinarian is stepping in to help.
Dr. Karen Stone is the owner of Appalachian Animal Hospital in Piney Flats. She reached out to Meals on Wheels after she found out some residents share their Meals on Wheels food donations with their pets, because they can’t get actual pet food.
Together, they brought a shopping cart into the entrance of the animal hospital. But it’s not for groceries, it’s stacked to the brim with pet supplies donations.
All of the donations are going to homebound residents along the Meals on Wheels route who struggle to buy pet food.
“There’s a need. These people need their pets. Their pets are their family members,” said Stephanie Walker, a representative from
Meals on Wheels. “I think everybody understands the older person at home alone with their little dog – and that’s where these donations are going.”
Stone says her clients have been quick to help.
“Our clients saw the shopping cart up front and have exploded with gratitude and warmth and filled it up,” said Stone.
So far, the donations are helping 40 families with pets. The donations are headed to Piney Flats, Blountville, Bristol, and even as far as Erwin.
“Those pets wouldn’t be getting the nutritious food that comes in these pet food packages if we didn’t donate them. They would be getting some leftover green beans, or maybe part of the meatloaf lunch that our seniors needs to have for their own nutrition,” said Walker.
Stone hopes other vet clinics will join the cause.
“I encourage any other veterinary clinic in the area that wants to be a part of this to contact Meals on Wheels. I think it’s a great program any veterinary clinic can do,” said Stone.
Food City donated the shopping cart to the animal hospital and also donates $25 a month to the cause.
If you would like to arrange a donation, Walker’s office is located in Johnson City. The number is 423-461-8217.
