The charity that’s helping homeless people to care for their pets

It’s hard to walk through any town without seeing homeless people who, often through no fault of their own, are living on the street.

Quite often, they are accompanied by a dog who is their only loyal companion when they have lost a roof over their head: their safety and security. 

Sadly, fewer than 10% of hostels and temporary accommodation accept dogs, forcing their homeless owner to continue to live on the street or to surrender the dog in order to be able to accept a refuge.

A charity called Street Paws is trying to change this. Its aim is to help homeless people to care for their pets and to remain with them. A team of volunteer vets and helpers provide treatment for pets who otherwise would be unlikely to be able to access it.

   (c) Street Paws 

Street Paws has also founded a growing team of 'Dog Champions' that provides accommodation for homeless dog owners. They may otherwise be rejected by hostels or emergency accommodation that doesn't accept dogs. This brilliant initiative enables dogs and owners to stay together, whilst receiving dog care advice and assistance, in a safe environment away from the street.

(c) Street Paws

Street Paws covers the cost of any treatment the dog may need, including vaccinations, to enable him or her to stay in the accommodation with their owner. Veterinary care can be very expensive, so this is a huge benefit for the homeless owner. 

A homeless man and his dog

In the winter being homeless is particularly difficult. The cold weather can make a challenging situation even worse. Street Paws is encouraging people to tell them if they see a homeless person and their dog struggling. You can find more information at https://streetpaws.co.uk/.

On Street Paws' website there's a lot more information about its fantastic work, and other ways of supporting the charity.

Those of us lucky enough to have a roof over our head and a warm bed can only imagine what it must be like to be living on the street. Cold, hungry, tired, and scared not only for yourself but for your beloved canine companion who may be your only friend.

This is why the work of Street Paws is so important, providing an essential lifeline for homeless owners and their dogs. Lets hope that it continues to receive the essential funding it needs.