Should the government provide assistance to pets when their humans fall on tough times?
That's the question at the heart of an Isola, Mississippi, man's Care2 petition.
Edward B. Johnston Jr. has been on the SNAP benefits for a few months. He has been able to feed himself; however, restrictions on what he can use the benefits to buy is leaving his dog a bit hungry.
Millions of Americans rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to purchase food for themselves, but what about food for their pets?
The Care2 petition asks the federal government to allow SNAP recipients to use their benefits to purchase pet food.
Johnston Jr. wrote:
"Some argue that people should not keep pets if they cannot afford them, but the fact is that an individual or family's financial status can change at any time. Should someone be forced to give up a pet they've had for years just because they hit a financial rough patch? Or should they be able to utilize federal aid to continue feeding their pet?"
The petition has gathered over 64,000 signatures, less than 1,000 away from its 65,000 signature goal.
Johnston Jr. said:
"Pets are important for emotional support. Being poor is hard enough without being expected to give up your companion. For most people, pets are considered family, not property."
To view Johnson Jr.'s petition, click here.
Do you think SNAP recipients should be allowed to use their benefits to purchase pet food? Let us know in the comments!
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