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Where to Find Free Pet Food if You Are Impacted by the Governmant Shutdown

As the government shutdown becomes the longest in history, reality is beginning to hit the employees caught in the crossfire. It's also impacting pets.


Over 500,000 people work for the federal government in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C.. On Friday, Oct.24, 2025 a significant number of government employees in the region did not get a paycheck. Many of the people affected may not be able to pay all of their bills. But it’s not just mortgages, groceries and utilities families are struggling with, many of these employees also have furry family members that need food too.

Thankfully, some generous organizations around the region are “ponying up” to help these families feed their pets. If you are one of the unlucky government employees who have been furloughed or are working without pay, these organizations around the DMV would like to help you out. 

Maryland

Baltimore Humane Society

The Baltimore Humane Society’s Bmore Kind Pet Food Bank is located in Reisterstown, Maryland and provides food for cats and dogs.

SPCA of Anne Arundel County

The SPCA of Anne Arundel County in Annapolis has a food bank program open to residents of Maryland. Go online to download an application or call  410) 268-4388 ext.121 for details.

Howard County

Howard County residents can get free pet food on a limited basis from animal control. Please call or email ahead of time to confirm supplies are available.

Montgomery County

Animal Welfare League of Montgomery County

The AWL’s Chompers Pet Food Bank supplies food for kittens, puppies, dogs and cats. You must pre-register and be a resident of Montgomery County.

D.C.

Humane Rescue Alliance

Humane Rescue Alliance’s Pet Pantry distributes pet food and five locations throughout the District. Visit the website to register and get the list of locations and times you can pick up the food. You must be a D.C. resident.

Virginia

Animal Welfare League of Arlington

The Animal Welfare League of Arlington has a pet food pantry open to residents of Arlington and Falls City Church. Just stop by and bring your government ID.

Humane Society of Fairfax County

Residents of the Fairfax County area can join the Ani Meals program to get food for their animals during the shutdown. Just fill out an application online and call the office for pickup dates and times.

You can also view this list of resources in Maryland by county; listings may not be accurate.


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Location: Maryland, USA

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