You cannot buy dog food with food stamps or an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. Food stamps and EBT are part of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which is designed to help low-income individuals and families afford nutritious food for themselves. SNAP benefits are strictly for the purchase of food items for human consumption.
Items such as pet food, alcohol, tobacco, non-food items (like cleaning supplies, paper products, and household supplies), vitamins and medicines, and hot foods or foods that will be eaten in the store are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
For pet food, you may need to consider other options, such as pet food banks, local animal shelters, or charitable organizations that might offer assistance. Some communities have resources specifically for pet owners facing financial difficulties.
Options for Food Assistance
Cofund My Pet
This is a crowdfunding platform specifically designed for pet owners. It allows individuals to create campaigns to raise funds for various pet-related needs, including veterinary care, food, and other essentials, providing a community-supported way to help pets in need.
The Humane Society
The Humane Society often provides resources and support for pet owners, including food assistance programs. They may offer pet food banks or connect pet owners with local resources and charities that can help provide food for pets whose owners are facing financial challenges.
Can I Use Food Stamps or EBT Card to Feed My Dog?
Yes. You cannot buy commercial pet food with an EBT card, but you can still use it to feed your dog. However, you will have to make homemade dog food for your canine friend. You can buy meat, vegetables, fruits, and dairy products from the EBT card. All of these items, along with some other ingredients, can be used to make homemade dog food.
Here are some healthy options to feed your dog on a homemade diet
- Cooked Chicken: A lean source of protein that’s easy to digest; avoid cooking with oils or seasonings.
- Brown Rice: A healthy carbohydrate that provides energy; ensure it’s well-cooked for easier digestion.
- Carrots: Low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins; can be given raw or cooked.
- Green Beans: Non-starchy vegetables that are low in calories; serve them steamed or boiled without added salt.
- Pumpkin: High in fiber and good for digestion; use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Apples: A good source of vitamins A and C; remove seeds and core before feeding.
- Plain Yogurt: Provides calcium and probiotics; choose non-fat or low-fat varieties without added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
- Cooked Lean Beef: A good source of protein and essential vitamins; serve plain and avoid fatty cuts.
- Sweet Potatoes: Rich in beta-carotene and fiber; served cooked and without added sugar or spices.
- Oats: Whole grain that’s high in fiber and beneficial for dogs with wheat allergies; cook them without sugar or flavoring.
- Brussels Sprouts: These are high in fiber and antioxidants, which can help improve overall canine health; cook them without added seasonings and serve in moderation due to potential gas issues.
- Spinach: Packed with vitamins A, B, C, and K, spinach also contains iron and antioxidants; however, feed in small quantities as it contains oxalates, which can cause kidney issues in large amounts.
- Asparagus: A good source of vitamins K, A, B1, B2, C, and E, as well as fiber and folate; it should be cooked and served in small, bite-sized pieces to avoid choking hazards and improve digestibility.
Tips to Consider Before Switching to Homemade Dog Food
- Consult a Veterinarian or Pet Nutritionist: Before changing your dog’s diet, it’s crucial to consult with a professional to ensure the homemade diet is nutritionally balanced and suitable for your dog’s specific health needs.
- Understand Nutritional Requirements: Dogs have different nutritional needs than humans. A balanced diet for dogs should include the right proportions of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
- Start with a Transition Phase: Gradually introduce the homemade food by mixing it with the current dog food over several days. This helps avoid digestive upsets as your dog’s system adjusts to the new diet.
- Avoid Toxic Foods: Certain foods that are safe for humans can be harmful to dogs. Research and be aware of foods like chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins, which should never be included in a dog’s diet.
- Monitor Your Dog’s Health: Pay close attention to your dog’s health and behavior once you switch to a homemade diet. Changes in weight, energy level, or digestion can indicate whether the diet is working well.
- Balance Variety with Consistency: While variety in proteins and vegetables is good, maintaining a consistent routine with meal times and portion sizes is important for your dog’s digestive health.
- Proper Food Preparation and Storage: Ensure that all ingredients are properly cooked and stored. Raw meats should be handled with care to avoid contamination, and cooked food should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Research and Use Supplements if Necessary: Some homemade diets may require supplements to provide essential nutrients that aren’t sufficiently present in basic food ingredients. Fish oil, bone meal, and specific vitamins are common supplements.
- Be Mindful of Portion Sizes: Overfeeding can lead to obesity. Understand your dog’s caloric needs based on their size, age, activity level, and health status to determine the correct portion sizes.
- Keep Hydration in Mind: Alongside a balanced diet, ensure your dog always has access to fresh water, as hydration is key to maintaining health.