A pet shop in Soham is doing its bit for animals affected by the economic downturn, by opening up the district’s first dedicated pet foodbank.

Staff at Scampers, in Northfield Road, heard about the work of the Soham Foodbank – which provides emergency food for residents struggling financially - when it started up July and decided they wanted to get involved.

After discussions with organisers, Scampers staff recognised that the pets belonging to families who were struggling were, in many cases, overlooked and decided they would host a foodbank especially for animals.

Just a few weeks in and dozens of packets and tins of food have already been collected and, according to staff, three families have been able to keep hold their pets because of the donated items,

Jackie Brinkler, of Scampers, said: “There are three families in Soham that the pet foodbank is helping to keep their pets at home and that is really good at a time when a lot of pets are being put up for rehoming.

“If, through the foodbank, we can keep a pet in the family home it’s a win-win situation for everyone. Pets can help with families that are going through a time of stress.”

Jackie said that any damaged stock or end-of-line items received at Scampers was being put into the foodbank, with customers also starting to make donations.

Piers Smart, Scampers proprietor, added: “I think most of the people we know who love their dogs and cats would probably go without themselves rather than see their pets suffer. So, we decided to do something to help.

“We are delighted to have opened the Scampers pet foodbank. It means that nutritious pet food, treats and goodies that otherwise might go to waste can all now go to a great cause.”