MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- For some pet owners, getting the care their animals need can be a challenge. A Milwaukee event is helping bridge that gap by providing pet food, supplies and resources to families in need.

Old Man CBS 58

Kenneth Ridgeway has been with his dog, Old Man, for eight years. When Old Man developed severe allergies, Ridgeway struggled to find a solution; then he found help through Pets for Life.

“They knew exactly what problem he had, they gave me the medication and I used it, and it worked immediately,” Ridgeway said.

The medication was provided at no cost, giving Ridgeway a way to care for Old Man.

“They were there as a last result, I almost gave up on my pet and surrendered him because of how severe his illness was and I can't thank them enough for it,” Ridgeway said.

That support continued Friday at the Unpacking Pawty at the COA Goldin Center in Milwaukee. Pet owners filled carts with pet food and supplies, accessing resources that can help them keep their animals at home.

“Many times families are separated because they can’t access resources so today is an opportunity to fill that gap for many families,” said Alison Fotsch, president and CEO of the Wisconsin Humane Society.

The event is part of Pets for Life’s 15th anniversary. The program is under Humane World for Animals and works with the Wisconsin Humane Society to bring pet care resources directly into communities where cost and access can be barriers.

For Ridgeway, that assistance has made all the difference in keeping his longtime companion by his side.

“You guys saved my dogs life from the major illness that he had so I can’t thank Pets for Life enough,” Ridgeway said.

CBS 58