Pet food pantry temporarily closes after repeated thefts on Pittsburgh's North Side

The Dr. John P. Ruffing VMD Pet Food Pantry on Pittsburgh's North Side has paused operations after repeated thefts of donated food and heated supplies; volunteers will deliver to clients for the rest of the month while organizers reconsider the distribution model.

The Dr. John P. Ruffing VMD Pet Food Pantry on Pittsburgh's North Side is temporarily closed after repeated thefts. Co-founder Sue Kerr said food and supplies, including heated water bowls, beds and shelters, were taken and that the nonprofit cannot afford to replace them. The pantry had operated on an honor system and provided monthly distributions to nearly 100 local caretakers and families, serving around 900 animals. Organizers say they will pause normal pick-up service while they review how to continue serving the community. Known details: - The pantry temporarily shut after repeated thefts of donated food and heated supplies. - Stolen items named by organizers included heated water bowls, beds and shelters intended for cold weather use. - The pantry distributed monthly to nearly 100 caretakers and families and served around 900 animals. - Organizers have recruited volunteers to deliver directly for the rest of the month while they reconsider the distribution model. Summary: The closure reduces access to the pantry's regular monthly distributions for local caretakers and the animals they serve. Organizers report volunteers will deliver supplies for the remainder of the month as they develop a new plan for distribution. Undetermined at this time.