In a time when it's tough for many people to provide food for their families, it's even tougher to feed the family pet. That's why free pet-food pantries are being established in city's across the nation. One in Franklin County that's helping to feed dozens of animals--for free.

Here at the Greenfield Animal Shelter on French King Highway, more and more animals are being surrendered by owners who can't afford to feed them. Jane Rosazza, who oversees the shelter, says it can get pretty pricey when it comes to feeding her own two cats. "Maybe 30 or 40 bucks a month on cat food, " admits Rosazza.

And that extra expense is greatly affecting the way people are caring for their animals. Lower-income people are now joined by middle class pet owners who are cutting back because of the economy. Rosazza says all sorts of people have been turning to the shelter for help.

"A lot of people from different walks of life, with children, older people, " says Rosazza.

A few years ago, shelter officials saw a great need to form a free pet food pantry. Just like the ones that serve humans, the pet pantry supplies food for animals. And so far, the free food has saved some pets from being surrendered.

"We are seeing people who can't take care of their animals, who have no money, but we will give them food, and sometimes they can keep them longer to figure things out, " says Rosazza.

Right now the shelter food supply is piling up, but that's not always the case. And just like any other food pantry the need will never go away. That's why more and more cities are establishing food pantries like these.

The pet-food pantry depends heavily on outside donations. If you would like to donate, the shelter in Greenfield has a donation box set-up outside its front door.