Bow Wow and Woofs owner starts free pet food pantry outside her Birch Bay shop

Heather Campbell, owner of Bow Wow and Woofs pet supply shop in Birch Bay Square, started a mini pet food bank outside her shop to help pet owners in need. “At this time of Covid-19, the last thing we need is people having to give up their babies because they can’t afford to feed them,” Campbell said. “We can’t allow this bond to be broken. You’ve got people who had no problem paying for their dog and cat food before. But right now, they’re in a place they’ve never been.”

Each day, Campbell sets up a food station on the sidewalk with a variety of free offerings. 

Campbell grew inspired to launch her project on April 17 when she began hearing that people were having a hard time paying for basic needs, including pet food. She donated her own money and collected funds from caring customers who weren’t affected financially but wanted to help others. She also approached her suppliers to see if they would be willing to kick in. So far, manufacturers who have contributed include Evanger’s, KLN Pet Products, Champion Pet Foods, and Red Barn Pet Products.

Campbell has already donated 450 pounds of food. “I think we need to give back at this time more than any,” she said. “We need to show kindness. I encourage anyone who has a pet store or a farm store to set up a food donation bin.”

Campbell named her initiative Mr. Kerry’s Pet Pantry for Pets in Need, in honor of her beloved 15-year-old cairn terrier Mr. Kerry, who died April 27 after a three-year battle with Cushing’s disease. Helping other animals was the best way she could think of to honor her dearly departed dog. 

For more information about the pet food pantry, email Campbell at bowwowandwoofs@comcast.net, or call 360/332-3647.