Houselessness and Pet Ownership: How California’s New Bill Impacts Homeless Pets

It's not uncommon to see houseless individuals accompanied by a four-legged companion.

Oftentimes, if they have a sign asking for help, they’ll indicate a need for their pet. It’s heartbreaking

to see the houseless crises and seeing their pets adds another layer to the sadness. These pets

give them companionship, a sense of security, and unconditional love while experiencing a very

dehumanizing situation. It is no wonder then when given the choice between a shelter

(meaning potentially leaving their pet behind) and the street, most will choose the street.

The fact that many shelters do not allow pets is a serious issue that needs to be addressed.

This is oftentimes due to the lack of funding for the shelters. A bill passed in California last

month seeks to address this issue. As a result of the bill, SB-513, provides all new funding

for organizations to tap into in order to address the houseless issue. This new source of

funding seeks to remove the stumbling block that is having to choose between shelter

and the pet, as the funding will allow shelters to have the resources they need to house

both owner and pet alike. This is a huge step in the right direction and will contribute to

getting more people off the streets.

California is setting an example for other states by making this aspect of houselessness

a priority. If the goal is to get every individual housed, we need to take every aspect of

their experience into consideration. Mental health, addictions, physical disabilities, and

yes, their pets as well.

Vulnerable People and Places Blog