Glasgow's newest foodbank... for dogs

Kelly Ann Stevenson noticed a real need for support among the city's homeless population and those using foodbanks.

She spoke to pet owners who were forfeiting food to make sure their four-legged friends did not go without.

And Kelly Ann decided something had to be done.

The 36-year-old said: "My sister lost her job and found herself in the position of having to use a foodbank.

"She said that they didn't give food parcels for animals so I offered to feed her dog while she needed me too.

"She's now back on her feet but it did make me think about what other people might do in that position."

Kelly Ann set up her business Canine Campus nine years ago as a dog walking service but the firm has expanded and she now carries out animal behaviour correction for rescue centres.

She also rescues dogs who need help, particularly those in English rehoming centres where the pets are put down if a new home cannot be found.

Kelly Ann said: "I can't resist a sob story. I once drove across the UK for a disabled bull terrier.

"I have had the care of dogs who it was said could not be fixed and I have managed to socialise them and see them to good homes.

"But it is difficult to financially support dogs through the process so we do get donations of food or collars or coats.

"But what I would ideally like to do is expand the service to include a food bank."

Kelly Ann had been in an abusive relationship but delayed leaving her partner to move to a women's shelter because she knew she would not be able to take her pets.

Eventually she left but was then homeless.

This experience has made her aware of the trials homeless people face - and she will always stop and chat to homeless people she sees with dogs.

Kelly Ann, who is originally from the Gorbals, said: "My plan, once I get enough food and supplies, is to have a regular time and place to distribute food so that homeless people and people who need help to feed their pets can come and collect it from me.

"At the moment I am dropping off food to anyone who needs it but demand is getting too high for me to keep doing that.

"Some people can be too embarrassed to ask for help but I want them to know that help is available."

Eventually Kelly Ann wants to have a collection of dedicated donors who give £1 a week to make sure supplies can be constantly topped up.

She said: "I'm not asking anyone for funny money. But if we can encourage, say, 1000 people to give £1 a week then we will be able to provide a really good service."

To donate to the foodbank, see www.gofundme.com/yfwh9wwk