U.S. Representatives Young Kim and Jamie Raskin have introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at encouraging pet suppliers to donate surplus food and supplies to animal shelters. The Bring Animals Relief and Kibble (BARK) Act seeks to recover millions of pounds of pet food for shelter animals, as well as facilitate the donation of items such as beds, blankets, crates, leashes, and toys.
Congresswoman Kim emphasized the dual benefits of reducing waste while supporting shelters facing shortages: “Across the country, many animal shelters face food and supply shortages while over a million pounds of usable pet supplies are wasted each year. The BARK Act will help reduce this waste, supply shelters in need, and feed animals.”
Rep. Raskin echoed these sentiments by highlighting the problem of viable pet food being discarded: “Every day, viable pet food goes to waste and blankets, crates and other supplies end up in the trash.” He expressed his commitment to ensuring that good supplies reach animals in need.
Sally Tom from Silver Spring inspired the BARK Act after observing retailers discard usable pet foods. She praised Rep. Raskin’s quick response: “After taking this problem to my Congressman, Jamie Raskin, he immediately crafted the BARK Act to help pet retail stores send shelters…the food they need.”
The ASPCA supports the legislation for its potential impact on shelters dealing with capacity issues due to extended animal stays and resource shortages. Maggie Garrett from the ASPCA stated that it would aid those caring for vulnerable animals.
Tracie Letterman from Humane World Action Fund described the act as “a commonsense way” to assist struggling shelters by boosting available resources. Amanda Arrington from Humane World for Animals highlighted how it would support pets staying in their homes by expanding donation availability.
Dana Brooks from Pet Food Institute noted that removing barriers to donations could ensure better nutrition for shelter pets: “Helping eliminate barriers…will ensure shelters are better able to provide pets awaiting their forever homes with…nutrition.”
The bill is endorsed by several organizations including Best Friends Animal Society and Maryland Nonprofits. Senators Raphael Warnock and Thom Tillis are introducing companion legislation in the Senate.
