The Importance of Pets: How Pets Help Unhoused Folks
People often wonder why many individuals experiencing homelessness have pets. People express shame and judgment, thinking that there is no way a pet could adequately be cared for while living on the streets. The reality is, these pets are almost always the first priority for their owner. Owners will skip meals and neglect their own needs to provide food and care for their beloved pets. They will wait in line for hours just to ensure their pets receive basic veterinary care and supplies. Just as companion pets change the lives of those who are housed, they also positively influence and support the lives of the unhoused. They provide warmth, care, and love to individuals experiencing the harshness of isolation and stigma. Pets don’t care what home looks like because, to them, home is the person that loves them so much.
Here are five reasons why having companion pets help unhoused individuals:
Emotional Support: Companion pets provide unconditional love and companionship, offering emotional support, as well as combating feelings of loneliness and isolation often experienced on the streets.
Sense of Responsibility: Caring for a pet instils a sense of responsibility and purpose, this give unhoused folks more reasons to prioritize their own well-being and stability in order to provide for their beloved pet.
Routine and Structure: Taking care of a pet establishes a daily routine and structure, which can be beneficial for individuals experiencing homelessness, offering stability and a sense of normalcy in an otherwise chaotic environment.
Social Interaction: Pets can act as social catalysts, facilitating interactions with other people and forming connections within the community. This can help combat social isolation and build a support network for unhoused folks.
Increased Mental Health: Studies have shown that owning pets can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. For unhoused folks facing numerous challenges and traumas, the presence of a loyal pet can provide a source of comfort and improve overall mental well-being.
