The  WellPet Foundation , part of  Wellness Natural Pet Food , recently donated 120 tons of dog food to animal shelters and rescue organizations in the US.

That equates to one bowl of kibble for 500,000 dogs, according to the company.

As the economic crunch persists, some animal shelters are facing challenges in providing enough food and proper nutrition to record numbers of pets being left in their care.

Dawgs N Texas , an animal wellness group and sanctuary based in Dalhart, Texas, USA, received some of the food.

"It is reassuring to know that our dogs will be well nourished and sustained as we help them to find loving homes," said Diane Trull of Dawgs N Texas.