In a tough economy, pets suffer, too. That's the thinking behind the Holiday Pet Food Drive, which is being sponsored by the Twin Cities Dog Daycare Association (TCDDA).

Like Toys for Tots or food shelf drives, participating Twin Cities locations will have bins in their lobbies where customers can help dogs in need by contributing food, supplies or money.

"Our businesses take care of very loved, very well cared-for dogs," said Anne Hendrickson, owner of Downtown Dogs, which is a part of TCDDA. The association was created in 2010 with a mission of driving standards, integrity and improving care in the dog day-care/boarding industry. "We wanted to do something to give back to the pets that don't have as much."

Unopened dry and wet pet food, new supplies and cash will be collected through Dec. 13 and handed out to local dog shelters, rescue organizations and charities such as the Pet Project, which helps families with financial hardships keep their pets by providing pet food.

Donation locations include Dog Days in St. Paul, Dog Day Getaway in Apple Valley, Downtown Dogs in downtown Minneapolis, and Pampered Pooch Playground in St Louis Park. More information: www.twincitiesdogdaycare association.com.

AIMÉE BLANCHETTE