Home is Where the Heart Is

Home is Where the Heart Is


Five to 10 percent of our nation’s 3.5 million homeless people have dogs or cats, and in some areas, the rate climbs to nearly 25 percent. Our pets are nonjudgmental, provide emotional comfort and keep us grounded. In turn, we pledge to keep them well fed, healthy and secure. But that’s a daunting task out on the streets.

Most shelters and rent-subsidized apartments don’t allow pets, so finding housing with an animal in tow can be next to impossible.

But volunteer organizations for pets of the homeless are out there to provide some relief by lending assistance to homeless shelters committed to keeping pets with their owners. Those organizations also collect and distribute pet food and other supplies and provide grants to veterinarians who travel to give on-site care to homeless pets. You can check online for ways to help.

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