Emergency Veterinary Care for Pets of the Homeless

Hello, my name is Blossom, and I’m a chubby, loving eight-year-old Beagle Collie mix. I have stayed with my dad in and around Holland, Michigan since becoming unhoused over two years ago. He has had my back since I was a puppy and would never give up on me. We now live in a tent in our church’s back lot. My dad gets Social Security and SNAP (food stamps).

One day, I started hacking, my skin began to smell bad, and the sores on my body were seeping. I just wasn’t doing well. My human noticed and knew something had to be done because the itching was unbearable even for him! My human reached out to our local Humane Society, where he was given the phone number to Feeding Pets of the Homeless, an organization that could possibly help. My human called, an intake was done, and when homeless verification was provided, our case manager said she would need a few days to call around to some veterinary hospitals in our area to see if any of them would be willing to work with us.

A few days went by, and my human became very worried and restless as none of us were getting any real sleep due to my constant itching. Once our case manager found a vet, an appointment was scheduled.

During my exam, it was discovered that my bathing habits, or lack thereof, were contributing to my skin infections and allergies. I also had some anal gland problems, but we won’t talk about that. Once done with the exam, I was given quite a few injections and some shampoo so my human could bathe me regularly to keep me from being so itchy and stinky. I even got my vaccines updated!

Thank you to Feeding Pets of the Homeless for contributing a total of $489 towards my care. My dad would like Feeding Pets of the Homeless to know how grateful he is for the help that was given. He truly will never forget it. Thank you!

As I write this report, each case reminds me of the reason I needed to start this nonprofit. Now, into the sixteenth year, my passion increases as I hear the voices of those experiencing homelessness who are frantic to get help for their beloved pets who are in pain. We hear the tears in their voices as they describe the injury or illness and then the gratefulness that someone is listening and will help. We know the importance of getting immediate veterinary help, which is why we take calls and, when we are out of the office, we take and return voice messages.

I know there are many worthwhile charities you can choose to support, and we are very grateful for your past donations and hope that you will continue to help these precious pets that belong to people without a home. People experiencing homelessness are often isolated, and their pets help in so many ways.

Your funding is greatly appreciated.

Links:

• Feeding Pets of the Homeless

Hello, my name is Papa, and I am a 6-month-old mutt. My human and I have been experiencing homelessness in the San Jose, CA area. Life has been tough, but we’ve managed to stick together and find comfort in each other’s company. Recently, I started feeling really sick. I was vomiting, not eating or drinking, and had very loose stools. My human was really worried about me and reached out to Feeding Pets of the Homeless for help.

Thankfully, Feeding Pets of the Homeless was there for us. A kind case manager completed an intake with my human, and they approved an exam for me. It turns out, I tested positive for Parvo, a scary illness that made me feel so weak and miserable. But because of this amazing organization, I was immediately treated and hospitalized.

The doctors and nurses took great care of me, and after a few days, I started to feel much better. I’m now back with my human, feeling strong and happy again. We are both incredibly grateful for the help we received from Feeding Pets of the Homeless. They covered the cost of my treatment, which totaled $1,500. Without their support, I don’t know what would have happened to me.

Thank you, Feeding Pets of the Homeless and their donors like you, for giving me a second chance and helping my human take care of me. We are forever thankful for your kindness and generosity.

With love,
Papa
 

Impact of Your Donations

When left untreated, pets like Papa have a much harder chance of recovery from illnesses like Parvo. Your donations help these pets survive and thrive, even in the toughest circumstances. Each contribution you make goes directly towards providing life-saving treatments, food, and other necessary support for pets and their owners in need.

The 2023 Annual Report is out NOW

We are excited to announce that our 2023 annual report is now available. This report comprehensively overviews our activities, achievements, and financial health over the past year. It highlights the many ways in which your support has made a difference in the lives of pets and their owners experiencing homelessness.

We cannot thank you enough for your continued support and generosity. Stories like Papa’s are a testament to the incredible impact of your donations. Together, we are making a significant difference in the lives of those who need it most. Please take a moment to read our 2023 annual report and see the full extent of the positive change you are helping to create. 

Your support means so much to us and the pets you are helping every day with your donations. Please consider a recurring donation through the end of 2024.
  

Links:

• 2023 Annual Report
• Feeding Pets of the Homeless
• Your Make a Difference - Video