By Genevieve Frederick | Founder
A disabled homeless man in the La Mesa, CA area called Pets of the Homeless. After interviewing the man, he told us that he has been homeless for the past three months along with his nine-year-old beagle mix, Flannel. He and Flannel stay in a transitional housing facility consisting of a bed only and shared facilities. He was concerned that Flannel may have an ear infection and keeps scratching at his ears causing more irritation. We approved an exam at a participating network veterinarian.
After the exam, the staff informed us that Flannel was the sweetest dog. They said he was very friendly and in a great mood for being in pain. The doctor recommended and we approved an ear cleaning, ear cytology, antibiotics, pain meds, flea control, and updated his vaccinations. We assisted with $261 for Flannel’s treatment.
The doctor told Pets of the Homeless that Flannel had a 3-4 grade level of dental disease and he would definitely need teeth extractions. The hospital put together an estimate of $320 which includes: IV catheter, anesthesia, surgery, injections, and dental extractions. We approved all treatment and are currently waiting for the owner to schedule the dental appointment.
The man called to thank us and sent us this note.
To Pets of the Homeless team, Thank you for taking care of Flannel's needs today. He is feeling much better after getting his ears cleaned out and vaccinations. We both have much gratitude and appreciation for your professionalism, caring and comfort. It is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely, Flannel and his owner
Flannel is just one of the 1,589 pets that we were able to help in 2018. Last year, we did not have to turn a homeless person and their pet away. This was due to a large bequest we received from the Patricia Sharon Trust. Your generosity and hers allowed us to directly pay over $473,000 to hospitals for emergency veterinary care, spay and neuter surgeries and wellness clinics.
Sadly, this year may be different. Without additional funding from our supporters, we may have to put people on a waiting list for treatment unless the pet has an extreme emergency such as being hit by a car or having blood coming from body orifices.
The need is critical for support from people like you so we can help these pets. Pets that belong to homeless people.
Won’t you help by joining “Hands and Paws” to end the pain and hunger by giving a gift to Pets of the Homeless?
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