Hello everyone,  I am part of the Peace Warrior's Global Youth Program 2024, and this is a non-profit organization that strives towards the goal of changing the world, one step at a time. I am a dedicated dog lover and a long-standing member of our beloved San Diego community

My goal is to help the homeless and underfed dogs in San Diego. There are homeless and abandoned dogs especially in areas as bustling as Downtown and Oceanside, with no access to food. It's heartbreaking to imagine our own pets in a similar situation, and this is why we need to make change happen, so no pet in our community goes hungry.

The stark reality is that many families in our city are struggling to provide for their pets due to financial hardship. Some must make the unfortunate decision to surrender these loving pets to shelters just because they can't feed them. This crisis also extends to local food pantries. Although they make every effort to support these families, they sometimes fall short due to insufficient supplies.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that over 8% of our city's population lives in poverty. With San Diego's pet ownership rate being notably high, this issue is even more pressing. The San Diego County Department of Animal Services shelters took in more than 5,700 animals last year, and more than 5,100 were adopted or placed in new homes. That's a chasm of 600 pets with nobody to go home to. 

"...On Thursday, the county said many of dogs are being given up is because of housing or financial issues, because their human died or can't take care of them anymore or (see headline above), simply, there were too many dogs in one home..." said Carl Smith, an assistant director of San Diego County's department of animal services. (quoted from this article: https://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/has-the-impossible-happened-are-there-too-many-dogs-in-san-diego/3407660/)

Our petition calls on city leaders and businesses to establish an accessible program ensuring pet food availability for all. We implore pet food manufacturers, supermarkets, and pet supply stores to partner with this initiative, contributing to food pantries and creating affordable options for those in need. 

Let's ensure that every pet in San Diego gets the nourishment they need, regardless of their family's financial status. By signing my petition, you show your support for this noble cause of keeping pets with their families and helping them stay healthy and well-fed. Together, we can give our furry friends the life they deserve.

Please sign this petition today, and help us change the lives of countless pets and families in San Diego. Thank you, and your signature will be much appreciated.