Often times, a pet is the only friend, warmth and security a homeless person has. Yet homeless Americans with pets are often turned away from shelters, soup kitchens, or other places they could seek assistance.
Pets of the Homeless is working to assist homeless Americans and their companion animals during the holiday season.
Pets of the Homeless is the only national animal welfare nonprofit dedicated to providing pet food and veterinary care to homeless people with companion animals. Pets of the Homeless works with shelters, soup kitchens, veterinary clinics, and more than 200 organizations to make the lives of homeless Americans easier. Ensuring that a pet’s needs are met allows homeless people to spend more time focusing on getting their lives back on track.
Homeless Americans are at a greater risk for health concerns than other populations. During the winter, concerns are heightened, with frostbite and hypothermia sometimes occurring in just 10 minutes.
Companion animals face many of the same risks as their owners. In addition to frostbite and hypothermia, their paws are easily damaged by snow, salt, ice or debris.
Often times, a pet is the only friend, warmth and security a homeless person has. Yet homeless Americans with pets are often turned away from shelters, soup kitchens or other places they could seek assistance. Many homeless pet owners put their own needs second to ensure their pets are cared for, which makes it increasingly difficult for people to transition out of homelessness.
To make a monetary donation to Pets of the Homeless, visit petsofthehomeless.org/donate.
Other ways to help:
There are other ways to help the organization, like donating pet food or supplies to your nearest donation site.
You can also enlist a new donation site. Becoming a donation site provides a place for customers and others in your community to drop off pet supplies and food, and it acclaims your business as caring to those in greater need. Pets of the Homeless will distribute a news release on behalf of all new donation sites, giving participating businesses extra promotion. It’s easy and there is no cost.
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash Nick Fewings