Emergency Veterinary Care for Pets of the Homeless

October brings a season of fun activities: pumpkin picking, tailgating at football games, and sweater weather. With Halloween, Columbus Day, Indigenous People’s Day, DAF Day (Donor Advised Funds) and quirky observances like National Coffee Day, Wear Something Gaudy Day, and National Greasy Foods Day, there's much to celebrate. We also recognize important causes this month, including Mental Illness Awareness Week, Breast Cancer and Dyslexia Awareness, Fire Prevention, Food Bank Weeks, and more.

But for those experiencing homelessness, October is just another day of survival, another day filled with uncertainty, loneliness, and fear.

For people in all walks of life, pets provide a sense of purpose and companionship, something especially meaningful for those facing the challenges of homelessness. Pets play a vital role in managing conditions like depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and even dementia. Their playful nature brings moments of joy, comfort, and hope to their owners.

At Feeding Pets of the Homeless, we’re dedicated to keeping pets and people together. With your continued support, we can provide essential pet food and emergency veterinary care, giving both pets and their owners the help they need to navigate tough times.

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Hi, my name is Mister Guzman, and I am a 2-year-old male Pug who stays with my mom in a homeless shelter in Long Beach, CA.  She dotes on me and keeps me in my best shape even though she is disabled.  We are best friends, and I do everything with her.

My mom noticed that I began to limp on my right front leg, and it quickly began to swell up within days. She couldn’t figure out how I had hurt myself and was very worried I had fractured a bone. My mom contacted Feeding Pets of the Homeless, and after a quick intake and homeless verification, they scheduled an urgent appointment to have my leg looked at.

After I got some x-rays, the vet determined I did have a fracture, which was why my leg had swelled up so badly. I also had an ingrown nail that required repair. Luckily, with a splint and some medications, I am on the mend and ready to play again soon.

Thank you to Feeding Pets of the Homeless for contributing $1,042 towards my care!

Note from owner: “I wanted to say thank you for helping us. I appreciate you with all my heart. He is hurt but the process of healing now starts. Once again thank you so much.”

Links:

• Feeding Pets of the Homeless
• Your Make a Difference - Video