Newly introduced legislation has the potential to significantly reduce waste by redirecting millions of pounds of pet food to support animals in shelters.
Legislation Aims to Alleviate Shelter Challenges
the recently proposed Bring Animals relief and Kibble (BARK) Act seeks to encourage pet supply companies to donate surplus food that is still safe for consumption, addressing the financial strains faced by animal shelters.
Bipartisan Support for Animal Welfare
This initiative, spearheaded by Representative Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Co-Chair of the Congressional animal Safety Caucus, alongside Representative Young Kim (CA-40), has garnered bipartisan support. Senators Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) are also introducing similar legislation in the Senate.
Reducing Waste while Supporting Shelters
The BARK Act aims not only to facilitate the donation of pet food but also makes it easier for individuals and businesses to contribute items such as beds, blankets, crates, leashes, toys, and other essential supplies needed by animals in shelters.
“Every day, perfectly good pet food is discarded along with blankets and crates,” stated Raskin. “This legislation encourages suppliers and individuals alike to donate these resources rather of throwing them away. I am pleased to collaborate with Representative Kim on ensuring that quality pet supplies reach shelter animals who need them most.”
A Growing Need Amid Rising Costs
Raskin emphasizes that this legislative effort comes at a crucial time when animal shelters are grappling with increasing operational expenses.
A Local Advocate’s call for Change
Sally Tom from Silver Spring reached out after witnessing bags of usable pet food being discarded by retailers. “I’ve seen perfectly good bags of dog food thrown away—food that could benefit an animal in a shelter,” she remarked. “After discussing this issue with Congressman Jamie Raskin, he quickly developed the BARK Act aimed at helping retail stores provide much-needed resources directly to shelters and rescue organizations.” She added emphatically: “Let’s save this food for those who rescue!”
Addressing Capacity Challenges Nationwide
Maggie garrett from ASPCA highlights how this bill will assist shelters nationwide facing not just rising costs but also capacity challenges due to longer stays for animals combined with staffing shortages. “This bill will help alleviate some pressure on facilities dealing with an ongoing capacity crisis caused by increased lengths of stay for pets along with veterinary shortages,” Garrett explained.
Broad Endorsement from Animal Welfare Organizations
The BARK act has received endorsements from several prominent organizations including Best Friends Animal Society, Pet Food Institute, ASPCA, Humane World Action Fund, and Maryland nonprofits—all advocating for improved conditions within animal welfare systems across the country.