Emergency Veterinary Care for Pets of the Homeless

For the last ten years, your generosity has made it possible to continue our mission of providing pet food and emergency veterinary care to pets that belong to the homeless across the country.  Pets that offer comfort, protection and unconditional love – asking nothing while enduring the hardships of being homeless.  Pets relieve the anguish that a homeless person feels every day.   

Our case managers are averaging over 28 cases a week.  During 2018, we served over 1,400 pets who had an illness or injury.  That total is twice the number from 2017.   766 hospitals in 415 cities in 46 states were paid directly at time of service.  That amount was over $448,000 (after discounts).  We could not have helped these pets without you. 

Carrie is a homeless woman in the Portland, Oregon area. After interviewing Carrie, we found out that she currently resides in her vehicle and stays at numerous parks until she is unable to stay any longer. She said she couldn’t stay in one place due to the police. Carrie said she was referred to us by another organization as well as an internet search. She has been homeless for about two years and the only source of income she has is food stamps. Carrie first called Pets of the Homeless seeking assistance for her eleven-year-old chiweenie mix, Tucker. She called and said she rescued Tucker a few months ago off the streets.  He was starting to limp. She also noticed Tucker had bad gingivitis and was not eating or drinking as much.

We approved an exam at a new partnering veterinarian at Heartfelt Veterinary Hospital.  After the exam, the doctor told us that Tucker would need a full mouth extraction. We approved an anti-inflammatory, antibiotics, and bloodwork. We spent a total of $206.67 on the first visit. The doctors came up with an estimate for a full mouth dental and the low end was $1600.  With the financial aid from another animal welfare organization Tucker was able to get his dental done. We spent a total of $793.33. The hospital said that Tucker was a very nice dog and that he was doing a lot better.     

Homelessness is on the rise across the country and many folks are going into homelessness with their kids and pets.  Many homeless are sick, exhausted, mentally ill and burdened.   If you became homeless tomorrow, what would you do?  So many questions come to mind – where will we go?  How can I take care of my pet without shelter?  How will I be able to feed him?  What if he/she gets sick or ill?  How will I be able to get any help when pets are not allowed in public buildings?   Can I find friends or family members to foster my pet?  

We are expecting more homeless callers during 2019 because word has spread that there is veterinary help available.

Your donations can mean the difference between life and death for an animal who deserves your care and concern.  Won’t you please join hands and paws to help a homeless pet?  Every dollar you donate helps.

Links:

• Feeding Pets of the Homeless website