History of Feed-A-Pet
Feed-A-Pet was created in 2001 after Mobile Meals volunteers observed that many older adults were sharing their meals with their pets, often at the expense of their own nutrition. To help ensure both older adults and their pets receive the nourishment they need, the program was launched through a partnership among the CAC Office on Aging, the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), Mobile Meals, and The University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine.
About Feed- A-Pet Today
Through the Feed-A-Pet program, volunteers deliver donated cat and dog food each month to clients who cannot afford it on their own. This essential service helps older adults keep their beloved pets at home, offering comfort, companionship, and emotional support. Without Feed-A-Pet, many would face the heartbreaking choice of giving up their pets—putting them at greater risk for loneliness and declining mental health.
Pounds of Food Delivered Each Month
Number of Dogs Fed Each Month
Number of Cats Fed Each Month
Eligibility
- Age 60 or older
- Knox County resident
- Live independently
- Currently have a pet and struggle to afford pet food
- Low-income (At least 150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines)
- Pets are spayed/neutered and up to date on vaccines
*When resources are available, the program can assist with these costs to ensure the pet is eligible for services. Referrals to low-cost providers are always available.
Apply For Feed-A-Pet
To apply for Feed-A-Pet services, please contact the CAC Office on Aging at (865) 524-2786 or info@knoxseniors.org.
Donations Keep Feed-A-Pet Going!
Feed-A-Pet gladly accepts donations year-round! To help keep pets healthy and avoid digestive issues, we aim to provide the same food each month. We are especially in need of the following cat and dog food items:
DOG FOOD ITEMS:
- Purina ONE Small Bites (8 lb. bag)
- Pedigree Small Bites (4 lb. bag)
- Beneful Small Bites (4 lb. bag)
- Cesar cans/trays
- Pedigree cans/pouches
- Beneful cans/trays
CAT FOOD ITEMS:
- Friskies (3.15 lb. bag)
- Meow Mix (3.15 lb. bag)
- Purina Cat Chow (3.15 lb. bag)
- Canned food, gravy or paté style, in the following brands: 9-Lives, Fancy Feast, Friskies, Meow Mix
* Please donate bags weighing LESS THAN 10 LBS., as some of our clients are unable to lift heavy items.
Four Easy Ways To Donate!
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In-Person
Drop off any of the items listed at the Ross Building located at 2247 Western Ave., Knoxville, TN 37921, anytime Monday – Friday 7:30 am – 4:45 pm. There is a donation bin located inside the front door.
Online Wish List
Donate Online or By Check
Donate money online or send us a check.
Online donation: https://www.knoxseniors.org/donate/support-feed-a-pet/
Make checks payable to:
CAC Office on Aging
Attn: Feed-A-Pet
PO Box 51650
Knoxville, TN 37950
Host a Pet Food Drive
Alternate Drop-Off Locations
The following partner locations accept donations on behalf of the Feed-A-Pet program:
Dogwood Animal Hospital
5900 Chapman Hwy., Knoxville, TN 37920
Forest Park Animal Clinic
Norwood Veterinary Hospital
O’Connor Senior Center
Volunteer Opportunities
Interested in volunteering for Feed-A-Pet?
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