Teddington's Blue Cross has teamed up with Richmond Food Bank to provide help to pet owners who are struggling to feed their animals as everyday living costs continue to rise.

The pet charity shop on Broad Street in Teddington is seeking donations of dog, cat and kitten food, as well as food for small animals including rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters which will then be collected and distributed to families in need through Richmond Food Bank.

Lisa Connor, Manager at Blue Cross Teddington charity shop, said: "Here at Blue Cross we've heard stories of owners going without food themselves to cover the cost of feeding or caring for their pets and we are aware that for some people their pets are their only companions and link to the outside world.

"No pet should have to go hungry, and no one should have to choose between feeding themselves or feeding their pets. Pets are part of the family and that's why we've teamed up with our local food bank to help people to keep their family together. Your donations will help families who have nowhere else to turn."

Richmond Food Bank Manager, Paul Beadle added: "We are delighted to have this partnership with Blue Cross's shop in Teddington. Our four food banks are seeing an increased need across the borough and many of our guests have pets they need to feed.

"We know pets play an important part in the lives of individuals and families, but as household budgets are being squeezed, people are struggling to feed their pets. The Blue Cross donations will make a huge difference in helping us maintain a good stock of much needed pet food and will directly impact local residents in need."

For further details on the type of pet food Teddington's Blue Cross store is in need of, and how you can drop off your donations, visit the charity's website here.

Blue Cross is a national charity that has been helping sick, injured or homeless pets for 125 years. Every year the organisation helps thousands of pets and their people by providing veterinary care, expert behaviour advice and find homeless pets loving families.

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Blue Cross relies on the support and donations of pet lovers to continue their vita work, visit the charity's site to donate today.

The Richmond foodbank is part of the Vineyard Community Centre in central Richmond and it operates four other foodbank distribution centres in the borough, as well as operating as a hub for practical and social support. To find out more, visit their website here.