A Westbury woman has marked two years of supporting animals across the town.
Jo Robinson has decided to close the Westbury Pet Food Bank and pass the baton to a similar organisation in Warminster. Launched in 2023, her service allowed people to visit her home and pick up essential items for their pets that they might not otherwise have been able to afford.
The decision to close the Westbury Pet Food Bank came after a difficult year for Jo personally.
She said, “Last year I was a carer for my brother and had to leave Westbury for Dorset for a while. It was difficult to be away from home and the pet food bank. I think it’s kind of run its course.
“While people in Westbury do need support, I’ve also helped a lot of people from places like Trowbridge and Warminster. So I thought, ‘why don’t I hand it to someone who is in a better location for everyone?’”
The idea for the Westbury Pet Food Bank stemmed from Jo’s three “fussy cats” who refused to eat a brand of pet food she had bought. Fortunately, she was able to give the unwanted food to hedgehogs in her care but wondered what others in her situation would do. As a result, she set up the Westbury Pet Food Bank, allowing people to donate unwanted pet food to support those struggling to afford it.
During her time running the pet food bank, Jo estimates she has helped feed more than 315 animals, including dogs, cats, bearded dragons, parrots and rabbits. She has also worked alongside the council to support homeless people and given talks to Brownies groups about her work.
Jo, who now has four cats, added, “There have been so many people and animals I’ve helped in different ways, it’s been very busy. I got a lot of people reaching out in school holidays. I’d get messages like, ‘can I get some pet food just to help for the next couple of weeks, so I can afford to take the kids out?’ I’ve had some amazing donations from the community, which has really helped support those in need.
“Pets Corner in Warminster has been fantastic and would donate toys and other items. A lot of the time, when people requested food, I’d try to throw in something extra to make a bit more of a difference. I think it helped people feel less uncomfortable about asking for help.
“I hope people will support the Warminster pet food bank, as there are still a lot of people who need help. I just want to thank everyone for all the donations over the years—it’s helped a lot of animals.”
Jo would also like to thank Davies & Davies estate agents for collecting donations for the Westbury Pet Food Bank, Ginny at Cats in Distress for assisting people with getting their animals neutered, and Pets Corner in Warminster for their support.
Donations can still be dropped off at Davies & Davies in Westbury, where they will be collected by the Warminster Pet Food Bank each week.
To find out about the Warminster Pet Food Bank, which will continue to offer support to Westbury pet owners, visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/885340403607816/
Pictured: Jo Robinson who founded the Westbury Pet Food Bank in 2023
