Pet Program: Pet Go
Because a beloved pet is family — our Pet Program helps ensure that seniors never have to choose between feeding themselves or their furry companions.
Pet Go: Helping Seniors Care for Their Beloved Pets
Because no one should have to choose between feeding themselves and feeding their pet.
For many of our Meals on Wheels participants, their pets are more than companions — they’re family. The Pet Go program helps ensure that seniors never have to worry about how they’ll care for their furry friends. By providing pet food and supplies alongside regular meal deliveries, we help older adults keep their pets healthy, happy, and right where they belong — at home, together.
What Is Pet Go?
Pet Go is a pet support program provided by Meals on Wheels of Hillsborough County, in partnership with the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire and the Humane Society for Greater Nashua.
Together, we make sure that every meal delivered to a homebound neighbor also supports the animals who bring them comfort and joy.
How the Program Works
Pet Go provides cat food, dog food, and litter (for cats) to clients enrolled in our Home Delivered Meals program. Deliveries typically happen every two weeks, along with participants’ regular Meals on Wheels deliveries. Occasionally, a special trip is made to ensure no pet goes without.
The pet food is supplemental, designed to help stretch limited budgets and make caring for pets more manageable for those on fixed incomes.
In the past year alone, we’ve provided:
- 2,661 lbs. of cat food
- 1,495 lbs. of dog food
- Supporting
82 beloved pets across Hillsborough County
Why It Matters
Pets are a source of love, companionship, and emotional well-being — especially for older adults living alone. For many, these animals are their closest friends and daily motivation.
“The Pet Go program helps me afford and keep my cat. It is a blessing to me. My cat is a service pet. It takes away my loneliness. I love Lee Lee (that’s my cat’s name). Thank you.”
“Receiving pet food is a great help for me. Knowing my dog won't go hungry is a plus.”
“Pet Go helps me save money on a fixed income — pets can be expensive.”
These stories remind us that by supporting pets, we’re supporting people — and strengthening the bond that keeps them connected and cared for.
Tracy's Story
We recently met Tracy, a Manchester participant and loving owner of two Chihuahuas, Princess and Lady, who receive food and treats through Pet Go. Princess, the elder at six years old, once served as a bridesmaid in Tracy’s wedding — proudly walking down the aisle in a custom Build-A-Bear dress.
Both pups bring music and laughter to the home, singing along to Jelly Roll songs and greeting “Dad” each day after work. But most importantly, they bring comfort and companionship to Tracy and her father, who also receives Meals on Wheels and pet supplies for his cat while battling cancer.
“I am very thankful for both programs (MOW and Pet Go) because it helps both me and my Dad supplement our household incomes,” Tracy shares. “The meal portions are perfect for all of us.”
Her story beautifully shows how Pet Go touches entire families — people and pets alike — creating a circle of care and compassion.
How You Can Help
Pet Go is made possible through grants, partnerships, and generous community support. You can make a difference by:
Donating
to help purchase pet food and supplies
Volunteering
to assist with sorting or delivering items
Spreading the word
so more seniors know about this support
Together, we can ensure that no senior — and no pet — is left hungry or alone.
If you or your loved one live outside of Hillsborough County, NH, please click here to visit the Meals on Wheels America website and find the appropriate Meals on Wheels agency for your service area.
