FAQ & Help Centre
We know asking for help can feel overwhelming, and understanding how to get involved can raise questions. Here are answers to the most common things people ask us. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, we’re here to help! Simply get in touch here: sally@thegoodpawproject.org.uk
About The Good Paw Project
What is The Good Paw Project?
The Good Paw Project is a not-for-profit organisation supporting dogs and their owners across the UK who are facing difficult circumstances. We provide practical help - from food bank access and vet care support to enrichment resources and owner wellbeing guidance. Our mission is simple: no dog goes hungry, and no owner struggles alone.
Who founded The Good Paw Project?
The Good Paw Project was founded by Sally Barker, also known as The Canine Dietitian. After years in the dog nutrition world, Sally became frustrated watching endless online debates about "what's best to feed your dog" while real owners couldn't afford even basic care. She created The Good Paw Project to focus on practical, judgement-free support for dogs and the people who love them.
Where do you operate?
We're starting locally in Huddersfield and growing nationwide across the UK. Our long-term vision is to build a network of support that reaches every community, postcode, and dog owner who needs us.
Are you a registered charity?
We're a not-for-profit business, not a registered charity. This structure keeps us lean, agile, and able to respond quickly to people who need help. While we're not a charity, we're 100% mission-driven - every penny we make goes back into supporting dogs and owners in need.
Getting Help
Who can access help from The Good Paw Project?
Anyone in the UK who's struggling to care for their dog. There's no income threshold, no means testing, and no judgement. If you're finding it hard to feed your dog, afford vet care, or provide what they need - we're here for you.
Do I need to prove I’m eligible for help?
No. We trust you to know when you need support. Asking for help is hard enough - we won’t make you jump through hoops or prove your circumstances. If you need help, that’s enough.
I’m worried I’ll have to give up my dog. Can you help?
That's exactly why we exist. Before making any decision about rehoming, please reach out. We can help you access food, vet care, and support to keep your dog with you. Giving up a dog is heartbreaking - let's explore every option together first.
How do I access a pet food bank?
Use our interactive map to find your nearest pet food bank. Many operate on a no-questions-asked basis - you simply turn up and collect what you need. If you can't find one near you or need help navigating the system, contact us and we'll help you find local support.
Can you help with emergency vet bills?
While we don't directly pay vet bills, we can signpost you to organizations that do. We also provide advice on accessing grants, payment plans, and emergency support. Check our Free Pet Resources page for full details.
I’m embarrassed to ask for help, will anyone know?
Asking for help is brave, not shameful. We'll never share your information, judge your circumstances, or make you feel bad for reaching out. Everything is confidential, compassionate, and designed to support you and your dog with dignity.
What kind of support do you offer?
We offer:
Food Support - Access to pet food banks and emergency feeding resources
Vet Care Help - Signposting to affordable vet services and financial assistance schemes
Enrichment Support - Toys, activities, walking help, and guidance for daily dog care
Owner Wellbeing - Mental health resources, benefits advice, and community support
Free Resources - Expert guides on dog nutrition, care, and wellbeing
What if I just need advice, not physical help?
That's absolutely fine! We're here for questions, guidance, and signposting too. Whether you need nutrition advice, behaviour support, or just someone to point you in the right direction - get in touch.
Supporting Us
How can I donate?
You can donate via our Donations page or directly through our fundraising platform Zeffy here. We accept one-off and monthly donations through secure payment processing (Stripe). Every penny goes directly to funding food banks, vet support, and resources for dogs and owners in need.
I can’t donate money but I want to help. What can I do?
There are so many ways to support us without spending money! Check out our Support Us page for the full list, here’s a few to get started:
Share our posts on social media
Tell friends and family about us
Volunteer at a collection point
Where does my donation go?
100% of donation funds go directly to our work. We cover essential admin costs (payment processing, web hosting, insurance) but we don't pay shareholders, spend on expensive marketing, or spend money on corporate overheads. We're transparent about every penny - check out how we’re funded on our about page for full details.
How do I know my donation is making a difference?
We share regular impact updates to all donors and supporters showing exactly how funds are used. We’re committed to transparency - you’ll always know where your money goes and the real-world impact it creates.
Can my business partner with you?
Absolutely. We work with businesses of all sizes! Partnership opportunities include financial sponsorship, product donations, in-kind support and collaborative campaigns. Visit our Partners page or get in touch to discuss how we can work together.
The Canine Collective
What is The Canine Collective?
The Canine Collective is a membership community created by Sally Barker (The Canine Dietitian). Members get access to expert canine nutrition advice, balanced recipes, webinars, exclusive discounts, and a supportive community of dog owners. It's a paid affordable membership designed to help ALL dog owners feed and care for their dogs confidently.
How does The Canine Collective fund The Good Paw Project?
A: 100% of profits from Canine Collective memberships go directly to funding The Good Paw Project's work. When you join The Canine Collective, you get brilliant resources for your own dog AND you're funding practical help for dogs and owners in need. It's a win-win.
Do I need to join The Canine Collective to access help from The Good Paw Project?
Absolutely not. The Good Paw Project's support is completely free and available to anyone who needs it - no membership required, no conditions, no strings attached.
Can I access The Good Paw Project resources if I'm a Canine Collective member?
A: Yes, of course! The Good Paw Project's resources are free for everyone - members and non-members alike. If you're struggling, you can access our food banks, vet support signposting, and resources regardless of whether you're a Canine Collective member.
Are The Canine Collective and The Good Paw Project the same thing?
A: No, they're separate but connected. The Canine Collective is a paid membership offering expert nutrition advice and resources. The Good Paw Project is a not-for-profit providing free emergency support. The Canine Collective funds The Good Paw Project - so members of the Collective help power our work.
Still have questions?
We're here to help. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, or if you'd prefer to speak to someone directly, please get in touch.