RSPCA and East Suffolk Council's pet food larders open

People who are struggling to afford feed for their pets can now use one of five community pet food larders.

The RSPCA has teamed up with local councils across the region to launch the larders, which provide free dog and cat food, pouches, biscuits and pet litter.

Chloe Shorten, Head of Animal Welfare from RSPCA Mid Norfolk and North Suffolk Branch with a lamb and three sheep dogs (Image: RSPCA)

Chloe Shorten, head of animal welfare at the RSPCA Mid Norfolk and North Suffolk, said: “We understand it’s a difficult and scary time for many people due to the cost-of-living crisis and unfortunately rescue centres are inundated.

"This is why we have teamed up with local councils and food banks to share out food supplies and help keep pets in homes.”

There is no need to register to use the pet larders, which can be found at Beccles Library, Bungay Library, Bungay Community Support, 8 Marketplace; Halesworth Community Larder at St Mary’s Church Hall; and St Luke’s Parish Pantry at St Luke’s Church, Beccles.

READ MORE: Search dog Diesel retires after eight years
Beccles Library is situated just of Blyburgate in the town (Image: Archant © 2008)

Sharon Chapman, Beccles Library manager, said: "The pet food kindly donated by the RSPCA has been genuinely appreciated by so many of our library customers - and their pets.

"All of them have asked us to pass on their thanks."

Cllr Letitia Smith has spearheaded the pet food larder campaign (Image: East Suffolk Council)

Councillor Letitia Smith, East Suffolk’s cabinet member for communities, leisure and tourism said: “Pets are important members of the family and play a huge role in reducing loneliness and improving mental wellbeing.

"No-one should have to rehome their pet due to rising costs and these new pet food larders will help people who are struggling."

Russell the kitten was rescued by RSPCA from a compost heap in Norwich (Image: RSPCA Norfolk)