Emergency Veterinary Care for Pets of the Homeless

Attitudes are changing, masks are coming off, and people are generally feeling much better about life.  I hope you are too.

Unlike last year, a new vitality is changing us.  If we keep a positive attitude, life can be great, positive energy is needed so we can move ahead and enjoy our lives again.   You can be the one to change the attitudes of those around you.  I hope you do.

“Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness in people.” - Roy T. Bennett

Monnie has been homeless for almost four years in Southern California.   She receives food stamps and is disabled with SSI pending. She does not have transportation. Monnie reached out to Feeding Pets of the Homeless because her 13-year-old Male Terrier, Boo, was not eating or drinking and was lethargic. An intake interview was completed and homelessness was verified. An exam was approved at Garden Grove Dog and Cat Hospital. Following the exam and lab work, the outcome was that Boo was suffering from diabetes.  Boo was provided insulin, IV fluids and hospitalized until he was stable enough to return home.  Feeding Pets of the Homeless contributed $1,126 towards the care for Boo and the hospital discounted $85.

This case brings up a number of concerns. 

One: Being disabled and applying for SSI disability can take years until a final discussion is made, usually in a court of law by a judge.  Meanwhile the person remains homeless and their health deteriorates.

Two: Once a pet is diagnosed with an ongoing issue such as diabetes or cancer we can no longer help that pet.  We do not have the funds to continue to provide meds and treatments for the life of a pet.  We give the owner resources of other organizations that can and will help.  

Three:  Without transportation, it is a challenge to keep an appointment and many times the pet is not treated.  Our case managers are very aware of this problem and try to find a hospital within walking distance.  

Jeffrey is homeless in the Lancaster, CA area.  He has been homeless for two years and lives in a shack he built in a vacant lot.  He is working with a social worker at Mental Health America.  He receives food stamps and general relief.  He called Feeding Pets of the Homeless concerned about his dog, Momo, a 2–year-old unaltered female Great Dane Mix.  He had found Momo as a puppy, abandoned in the desert near his shack.  Momo was involved in a dogfight.  She was limping on her front leg and had bite marks are her ears.  We approved an exam at one of our 1,060 hospitals.   After the examination, the veterinarian recommended x-rays, sedation and a pain injection.  After the x-rays it was determined there were no fractures.  We assisted with $490. Which also included anti-inflammatory injection and medications, and additional pain medications.  The hospital discounted $405.

Links:

• Feeding Pets of the Homeless
• Charity Navigator