Pet Evolution has launched a month-long pet food drive to help families affected by the ongoing federal government shutdown, ensuring their pets are fed during these difficult times.“I don’t think anybody should be trying to make that decision — whether to feed themselves or their pet,” said store owner Khurram Masud.Masud opened the store in January 2025 and wanted to give back to the community. The drive began Nov. 1 and runs through Nov. 30. Customers can purchase food directly from the store and donate or donate unopened wet or dry pet food.“People can buy food here or bring it in, as long as it’s unopened,” Masud said. “We’ll make sure it gets to the SPCA.”Although recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, cannot use their benefits to buy pet food, Masud said he is doing what he can to help. Federal workers, like TSA employees, have been working without pay for more than a month.“If this goes on longer, I’ll keep it going,” Masud said. “I want to be that bridge that makes sure nobody has to choose between feeding themselves or their pets.”Stacks of donated pet food continue to grow each day. One customer said, “With some of the shutdowns and whatnot, it’s got to be a huge help to anybody who needs that food.”Masud said he understands the financial strain many families are facing.“I’m feeling the pinch too, because people are having to tighten their belts,” he said. “I get it. I understand that.”The Sacramento Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals sharing to KCRA they are also stepping up to help, issuing the following statement: In response to increased demand, the SPCA has expanded its capacity to serve 150 families each month, helping to feed about 150 additional dogs.Each family receives 50 pounds of dog food, typically enough to last a month, with priority given to those who demonstrate financial need. Families interested in receiving help or donating can visit the SPCA website or drop off unopened bags of pet food at the shelter.See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel
Pet Evolution has launched a month-long pet food drive to help families affected by the ongoing federal government shutdown, ensuring their pets are fed during these difficult times.
“I don’t think anybody should be trying to make that decision — whether to feed themselves or their pet,” said store owner Khurram Masud.
Masud opened the store in January 2025 and wanted to give back to the community. The drive began Nov. 1 and runs through Nov. 30. Customers can purchase food directly from the store and donate or donate unopened wet or dry pet food.
“People can buy food here or bring it in, as long as it’s unopened,” Masud said. “We’ll make sure it gets to the SPCA.”
Although recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, cannot use their benefits to buy pet food, Masud said he is doing what he can to help. Federal workers, like TSA employees, have been working without pay for more than a month.
“If this goes on longer, I’ll keep it going,” Masud said. “I want to be that bridge that makes sure nobody has to choose between feeding themselves or their pets.”
Stacks of donated pet food continue to grow each day. One customer said, “With some of the shutdowns and whatnot, it’s got to be a huge help to anybody who needs that food.”
Masud said he understands the financial strain many families are facing.
“I’m feeling the pinch too, because people are having to tighten their belts,” he said. “I get it. I understand that.”
The Sacramento Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals sharing to KCRA they are also stepping up to help, issuing the following statement:
In response to increased demand, the SPCA has expanded its capacity to serve 150 families each month, helping to feed about 150 additional dogs.
Each family receives 50 pounds of dog food, typically enough to last a month, with priority given to those who demonstrate financial need. Families interested in receiving help or donating can visit the SPCA website or drop off unopened bags of pet food at the shelter.
See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel
link