Emergency Veterinary Care for Pets of the Homeless

Every day we see an increase of homeless callers asking for our help.  In 2019, our case managers took over 6,900 calls. This will help explain:  In an official UN letter to the US written in March 2019 - More than 7,400 families are evicted in the US every day, resulting in the eviction of millions ever year.  Rents in the US increased by 22 percent on average between 2006 and 2014, while average incomes decreased by six percent.  This data has increased over time.  

Jerry is disabled and homeless living in his car for a year and a half in the Provo Utah area.  We verified his homelessness with an advocate at a local food bank.  He called Pets of the Homeless™ concerned about Buggy, his four-year-old spayed female Beagle mix who was sneezing blood.  We approved an examination at a local participating network veterinarian.

After the exam, it was determined that Buggy had a piece of grass in her nostril.  The veterinarian gently pulled it out and we approved antibiotic and steroid injections.  We assisted with $210.20 (after a discount) and we also had Buggy’s vaccinations updated. 

Erica is a homeless woman who stays in her truck for the past 7 months in Oroville, CA.  She called Feeding Pets of the Homeless™ about her dog, Chevy, an 8-month old female Pit Bull Boxer mix who was in labor but hadn’t delivered puppies for over 24 hours.  She was at a veterinarian who began an emergency cesarean section.  We verified her homelessness with paperwork as well as photos of her living situation in her truck.

We pledged $500 towards the surgery which included fluids, anesthesia, medications, a spay and after care.  One puppy did not survive but three did.

We heard from Erica and received this photo.  Erica wrote, “Chevy’s doing fine, she is just fine little tired, but a great momma. Thank you so much for helping us save her.  Your organization is a blessing. Homeless people are so often overlooked by people and the same goes for homeless animals. These same animals are sometimes the only things that keep homeless people going and keep them company or warm at night. Keep doing the work you're doing, we need more organizations like yours.”

We could not have helped Chevy and Buggy without the help of our generous veterinary partners or supporters like yourself.

With sincere gratitude,   

Links:

• https://www.petsofthehomeless.org/help-pets/