Dallas Pet Food Costs Have Increased 20 Percent

Nearly one in three Dallas pet owners are struggling to afford food for their animals as local supply banks face record demand.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Pets — General

Dallas Pet Food Costs Have Increased 20 Percent

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Is the cost of pet ownership becoming increasingly unaffordable in your community?

Pet food costs in Dallas have risen 20% since 2022, leaving nearly one in three local pet owners facing challenges in providing for their animals. This affordability crisis has caused a surge in demand at regional pet food banks that now struggle to keep up with needs.

Why it matters

Inflation has driven up the cost of pet food while simultaneously reducing donation levels, forcing many families to turn to food banks or rely on human food for their pets. This strain on resources complicates basic household pet care for a significant portion of the city.

Pet food costs have climbed 20% since 2022, with one in three Dallas pet owners reporting difficulty purchasing supplies. Regional banks currently report a waitlist of 10 to 15 organizations as 10% of existing partners demand increased allocations.

The players

Don't Forget to Feed Me Pet Food Bank

A long-standing regional organization that has operated since 2008 to supply pet food to 45 local partners.

Fort Worth HOPE Center

A community support entity that distributed 58,000 pounds of pet food to address regional shortages.

Dallas Animal Services

The city department that manages local pet safety and operates a public pet food pantry program.

The details

Local pet food banks rely on a mix of direct purchases and community donations to supply 45 partner organizations across the region. As costs remain elevated, some owners are resorting to feeding pets human food, a trend that coincides with the Fort Worth HOPE Center distributing 58,000 pounds of food this year. To help meet local needs, Dallas Animal Services operates a pet food pantry twice monthly.

2008: Don't Forget to Feed Me Pet Food Bank began operations.
2022: Pet food price increases began.
Second and fourth Wednesdays of every month: Dallas Animal Services hosts pet food pantry distribution.

The Home Front

This affordability crunch follows the pattern set by the post-2022 inflationary trend in consumer staple goods. Household budgets across the region are increasingly strained as the rising cost of pet maintenance aligns with broader economic pressures on essential goods.

If you are struggling to afford supplies, look into the Dallas Animal Services pet food pantry distribution held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. Prior to making dietary changes for your pet, consult your veterinarian to ensure human food substitutions are safe.

The takeaway

The sustained rise in pet food costs is creating a significant burden for local households, with many now relying on community support to maintain pet care. If your household is facing food insecurity for your pets, contact Dallas Animal Services to confirm eligibility for their upcoming pantry dates.