DOGS Trust Harefield has opened a dog food bank to support owners struggling to meet the costs of caring for their pets.

David Simmonds, MP for Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner, visited the food bank in Harvil Road last week to give his support for the scheme.

The food bank has been running since October and is open to any dog owner in the area who may be struggling to meet costs. All the food has been donated by supporters of the charity.

Dogs Trust has received a record number of handover inquiries this year from owners being forced to make the heart-breaking decision to give up their pets.

Around a quarter of those calling have cited the rise in the cost of living as a reason for needing to hand over their dogs.

Mr Simmonds said: “I would encourage any dog owner who is struggling to visit Dogs Trust’s website to learn more about the services they provide.  

“It was also useful to receive an update on Dogs Trust’s work to stop the puppy smuggling trade.

“It is an issue that constituents regularly contact me about, and I will continue to to support Dogs Trust in their campaign to end the cruel trade.”

Jo Lloyd, External Affairs Manager at Dogs Trust, said: “David has visited us a number of times and it was clear how much interest he has in continuing to support our work both locally and in Parliament.“

The pet food bank at Harefield is open between 10am and 4pm, seven days a week. To speak to the team at Harefield and to donate items, call 0303 003 0000.