if they know of a local help organization.

Many big chain pet stores are donating food to organizations on the local level. Call the pet stores in your area and ask if they know of local help organizations or if they donate to any.

Call your local food bank. Many are starting to take donations of pet food.

Researchers say that having a pet to care for can do wonders for our health.

We get more exercise as we throw toys for a cat and get to socialize with others when we take the dog on a walk. Having a pet is good for us.

There’s also the little matter of love we share with out pets. Before you give up your pet because of the cost of its food, ask for help.

Matilda Charles regrets that she cannot personally answer reader questions, but will incorporate them into her column whenever possible. Write to her in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853- 6475, or send e-mail to columnreply@ gmail.com.

(c) 2010 King Features Synd., Inc.