(LaPorte, IN) -Taking care of pets can be difficult during trying times.

The La Porte County Small Animal Shelter is giving away

food and other pet supplies to keep dogs and cats in their homes because

of unexpected hardship during the public health emergency.  

Shelter director Jane Bernard says a $5,000 grant from the Healthcare Foundation

of LaPorte is going toward the effort.

“Anyone who needs help with dog food, cat food, cat litter we are more than

happy to help,” she said.

Bernard says help has already been extended to eight pet owners.

The shelter can be reached at 326-1637.

So far, Bernard said just a handful few pets have been turned in for adoption

because of these hard times.