August 2008

Dear Feeding Pets of the Homeless,

Having stumbled across your website, I can only say God bless you! I am a teenager in Scotland, UK and in my hometown Edinburgh there are a great many homeless people many of whom have dogs. As a student I do not have much money, but I always give my pocket change to people living on the streets. My friend once asked me why I give money to people who have dogs, or smoke. I replied that I do not judge them, I only wish to support them. My friend persisted on the point of the dog suggesting that I shouldn't be paying for the man and his dog, if the man really wanted to get off the streets he would get rid of the dog. This got me fired up. Apart from being a very callous statement, I was shocked that he could not see that the dog was probably the mans most supportive friend at that time. A friend who was always there to comfort him and keep him warm. Most likely the dog is one of the few things that keep him sane in his hard life. If people could only understand what these dogs mean to people living on the street and realized that by supporting the dog they are dramatically improving the chances that that person gets off the streets and is reintegrated into society. Your work is clearly invaluable, and I wish you all the best.

July 2008

It's 1:40 am and I can't sleep after a very disturbing incident with a homeless girl and her cat this evening.  I keep thinking about that poor cat.  I met them when I was going into a store.  Her cat was in a carry-kennel in a shopping cart that she had obviously been pushing him around in. 
 
I don't believe I've ever heard an animal that distraught; he was howling and howling and trying to get out.  I walked over and spoke with her and asked if I could see her cat.  She was more than happy to let me pet  him through the door.  That poor cat was terrified! You could see it in it's eyes- as big as soup bowls!  He rubbed and rubbed against me and she told me a little about her story- all the while howling!
 
I noted she was pretty loaded on something.  We talked for a while while I tried to calm her cat and see if she would be willing to let me find a home for him.  She said she had only been homeless one night and was upset because she had lost her other cat somewhere and he missed her.  They had slept under one of the bridges and that's why she wouldn't let him out of the kennel.  When I explained how distraught he was, she did seem genuinely concerned and after we talked for a while, she agreed if I could call an agency or someone to take him until she got on her feet again.  I explained I was already fostering strays and have 3 of my own animals but would find someone.
 
I called my husband who looked up the number to a few agencies.  Sadly they were closed, and I could only leave emergency messages.  While I was off to the side making the calls, someone in a van pulled up and she started packing up.  She came over to me and said "thanks sister- but I got somewhere to stay tonight". She gave me a quick hug and it seemed like only seconds and she was in the van with this cat who was still howling.
 
That poor cat.  Dogs are one thing for the homeless- they can walk on a leash. But a cat in a kennel being pushed in a rattling cart?? That poor animal. To lose it's mate...somewhere??
 
I seriously couldn't and wouldn't take the cat (George) without her consent-but I'm going back tomorrow to see if she's there again- what's one more??
 
More often I see homeless who panhandle with animals.  It's seemingly become a means of gaining sympathy for the animal and obviously money. These are the ones who make it bad for those homeless souls who genuinely care about their animals. And unfortunately- it will eventually close some helping hands. How do you differentiate without sacrificing help for the animal, or both?
 
I've bought food for homeless and their pets many times, and am now skeptical after I learned two of those people went back into the store and asked for a refund.  I no longer leave receipts in the bags when I hand them over on my way out.
 
So what would you do?  You know this homeless person is a serious addict and not thinking about the animal's welfare at all.  What would you have done?  Take the cat and run? (Trust me- it crossed my mind!)
 
Also- I'm in Calgary, Alberta Canada- do you have any participating vet clinics or organizations here?
 
Thanks for listening- maybe now I can get some sleep!

You are such a compassionate person.  Your story is frustrating and I am sorry you had to experience it.  For every one like the woman you described there are ten who are not in her shoes and would have made another choice.  Do not get discouraged, your kindness is so needed in these times. 

We only have one member in Canada and they are in Ottawa.  Can you let some pet related businesses or your own veterinarian know about us?   Or perhaps become a sponsor and help a business get started, we would be so appreciative.  If we can help, let us know.

A New Friendship 

I have spent time in the community getting the word out that I will donate my services to groom pets of the homeless. A homeless woman named Maria Ramirez called me to get her pets groomed. When I arrived it was obvious that one of her dogs was sick.

After bathing the dogs, I took” Rafy” , her pit bull, to Dr. Hacklar, a veterinarian in Castro Valley. Rafy had a yeast infection along with a staph and strep infection. His ears were very swollen and he was running a fever. Dr Hacklar treated Rafy four times, pro bono, and I am happy to report that Rafy has recovered completely. Maria and I are extremely grateful for Dr. Hacklar’s generosity.

Maria and I are now friends and she has become a coordinating entity for me with the homeless and disadvantaged community. She lets me know what the current needs are for the pets and this summer she has reported that there is a serious need for flea and tick treatments for dogs and cats, especially big dogs.

That is why we are specifically asking for donations for flea and tick treatments at this time. The locations where donations can be left are listed on the Feeding the Pets of the Homeless page of this website. Please check back often to find out new ways your donation can help.

Thank you,

Donna Butler-Gates

Note: Feeding Pets of the Homeless awarded Dr. Hacklar a grant to help cover the costs of Rafy medical treatments.  Donna’s Pet Grooming Mobile Service is located in Northern California and serves the greater East Bay and Tri Valley areas, she is a valued and compassionate member.

July 1, 2008 - This blog's author has first hand experiences on homelessness and offers a Homeless Survival Guide to those who may need it.  It is worth the time to take a moment and be thankful for what you have in your life. http://themanicramblingsofaswede.wordpress.com/2008/07/01/the-homeless-survival-guide/

June 30, 2008

Well, great (compassionate) minds think alike! I found your website to see if my program was in conflict with any others in California. 

I am homeless and own pets. But I am really lucky - I have an old RV to live in, and get a small amount of SSD each month. But I was helped when i couldn't afford to feed or euthanize my beloved animals.

 I decided, that even in my situation, I could help others. San Diego has an incredible amount of homeless people, driven by both the lack of shelters and the foreclosure rate.

As you are well aware, the human-animal bond provides so many benefits to people, not to mention, saves the lives of animals. 

I have been collecting as much food as I can and delivering it to the local homeless outreach center, but want to grow. I want to get a van with which to go down into San Diego proper at night, and distribute food. I saw your grant program, and wondered if, as a single, non-profit program, I could apply? I don't need much to get started, and the need is so great.

 I applaud the work you are doing, and hope to prevent the separation of pets from people regardless their circumstances.

 Thanks for any suggestions or help.

Dear Stephanie, You have a kind heart and a wonderful attitude.  We admire your willingness to help others in your situation. 

We can post the name of the local homeless outreach center that is distributing the pet food that you have collected on our website so that others in the San Diego area will know where to go if they need pet food. 

We encourage you to talk with pet related businesses or vet hospitals about joining our organization and becoming a collection site.  Ask them to call or go to the website to get more information.  And you could help them by picking up the food that they collect and taking it to the center.

The grant program is available only to licensed veterinarians that go out in their communities to administer preventative and medical care to the pets of the homeless.  We are sorry that we cannot help you in that regard. 

Keep up the good work that you are doing, you are a hero and we commend your efforts.

May you life be full of peace and love,

My children and I are fortunate to be blessed with the unconditional love provided by our pets. As an employee in the area of human services I know that there are a great number of homeless people and pets. I did not see New Hampshire on the list and would like more information on how I could start a New Hampshire branch and bring information to our veterinarian (and other vets as well) about providing this greatly needed service. You can email me information and/or mail the information. – We sent a membership application she can take to her veterinarian.

·        I am trying to start up a pet pantry here in my town of Yreka, California. I am not sure where to begin. – We sent information.

·        My son, Trey Dixon, is 17 and is putting together a benefit concert (local teenaged bands) to help raise money for two local charities here in Sugar Land, Texas:  Fort Bend Family Promise (provides housing to the homeless) and East Fort Bend Human Needs (provides food and other support services to the needy).  We want to try to get permission to use the attached photo by Kirsten Bole that we found on your website to put on the promotional fliers for this event.  Our event is called The Hope Concert and it will be held August 29 at Parkway United Methodist Church in Sugar Land, Texas.  - We gave permission with the stipulation that they provide information about Feeding Pets of the Homeless. We wish them success and hope that the organizations will agree to distribute pet food as well.

·        From a newspaper reporter - There was a national story about food banks starting to distribute pet food to people in need because they were not only having trouble feeding themselves but their pets, too. I've called the Food Bank of Northern Nevada and they do NOT give out pet food. They said to call the SPCA, which only donates pet food to people who would otherwise surrender their pet if they didn't get it. Do you know of any place where people (not necessarily homeless, just in need) can get pet food at a reduced cost or free? I'm especially interested in places that also offer people food but I'll write about any Northern Nevada location that does it.  Thanks! ~ Mark Robison Reno Gazette-Journal – We helped a member contact a food pantry nearby and they have agreed to distribute the pet food that he has collected. A food pantry volunteer drove to his business to pick it up the same day. The information was passed on to the reporter.

·        Last week an Adult Psychiatric Case Manager called regarding pet food for a client he was working with.  The client is homeless and has a service dog.  We were able to direct him to a soup kitchen where he can obtain pet food.  The case manager went to a homeless camp of over 130 in Reno and identified 5 pets living in tents with their owners.  Three needed pet food the other two where alright for now.  He described how much the pets mean to the homeless and the loyalty and devotion that are shared between the two. 

·        I was inquiring because there is a homeless man and his pet that live on the streets of Phoenix, AZ and of course it is 112+ degrees outside.  Whenever I do see them I make sure that I give him money and dog food.  However, his dog seems very very thin and even more so lately.  I know that she is his partner out on the lonely streets but she is way too thin and I want to know if there is something maybe I can do to offer help for his 4 legged family;) She is so sweet and friendly and she will even take her toy out to play with you as you approach out the basket.  I believe she is some kind of lab mix, since she has a brendal coat mayb mixed with a boxer.  Well right now she is so thin she reminds me of the dog from the Simpsons...I just want to see what there is to offer for this wonderful and playful girl.  Please Advise. thank you! – We provided social service phone numbers for the Phoenix area.

·        I just found your site after a search and was wondering if you could maybe guide me in the right direction...Ive been driving down the same road for the past several months, and I have noticed a homeless man and his dog living there...I want to help, but Im not sure how, as Im either told by others to "let the person and his dog be," or something along the lines of "you might get hurt if you stop to talk to him..." I feel god awful for this man and his dog (who is a German Shepherd, I think,) and nobody else seems to be able (or want) to help me...Its killing me to know I cant do anything (its 112 degrees here now,) and would like to and I know you guys are experts in this field...What can I do? Any information would be useful, or perhaps I am not the first one to ask about him? This man lives on Eastern/Civic Center, between Lake Mead and Cheyenne Dr in Las Vegas, perhaps someone else has asked about him? Id like to think I am not the only one who has seen him and is concerned...thank you! – You should be commended for wanting to help.  This individual may have trouble finding housing or shelter due to the dog.  But please call the organizations that I found on the internet by searching “social services las vegas nv”  This is a start.  If you can gather some dog food and water and with a friend (for safety) go to where the man and the dog are and give it to him.  And let him know about the Nevada 2-1-1 to obtain help.

July 6, 2008

    Several days ago I wrote you guys an email asking for help (what I should do) for a homeless guy and his dog, and you wanted to know what happened...Well he vanished! The next day when I went to check on him he and his dog were gone! Then for several days after that, they were still gone, and I still cannot find them now...Is it possible he got help? Maybe moved on? I hope whatever happened was GOOD and not bad...Thank you again for your help, I will keep this information with me in case I ever see him again, and your website handy on my comp...Thank you again so much!

April 21, 2008

I just found your site today from a comment at "I has a hotdog" that posted a picture of a dog with his homeless owner:  It broke my heart and reminded me of a time I was studying in Oxford (England) and came across a homeless man and his dog. I'm attaching the sermon I preached about that when I got back to the States.  I will put a donation in the mail first thing in the morning. I'm so, so glad to know you exist. I see, sadly, that you are not represented in Oklahoma. I have a friend who is both a veterinarian (although no longer practicing) as well as a Methodist minister and who currently works as a non-profit hospice chaplain. She has recently set up an organization to help the pets of those who are dying and who are of very limited means. I think that is a VERY important work because, as a single person myself, my biggest worry about being sick or dying is what will happen to my animals (all rescues, by the way.)

Please keep up your good work. I will spread the word to all the animal lovers I know.

Many blessings,

Ellie

April 11, 2008 - This photo by Kirsten Bole has done so much to bring attention to our organization and we thank Kirsten.

He’d lost everybody

Everything

All he had was the

Clothes on his back,

And his dog, Piper.

She was his last friend,

He’d known her

Most of his life,

Watched her mother

Birth her litter on

His bed.

She didn’t care

That his clothes were dirty

And torn,

Didn’t care

That maybe he smelled

Just a little.

They shared everything

What little they found

Scrounged for

In the dumpster

Behind the Irish pub

Down the block,

Or maybe once

In a while, he’d treat

Them to a sub

At Subway, if the

Panhandling take

Was good that day.

She followed him

Faithfully, entrusting

Him with her life

Her adoration for him

Reflected in large

Innocent brown eyes.

He would go hungry

Before she would,

If she was cold

He covered her with

His only coat.  

She was his everything

Now that he had

Lost it all,

She was his only companion,

His only comfort,

His most faithful friend

In a world full of misery.

Copyright Patricia Schoenberger 2008, all rights reserved worldwide.

April 8, 2008 - Hello, my name is Chelsea Osterberg, I am a public relations intern for the United Way of Whatcom County in Bellingham, Wash. I have been researching your organizations and its efforts. I’m very interested in the services you provide to the homeless and their beloved pets. As an animal lover, I have strong personal feelings for this cause. I was reading through some information on your website and noticed in one of your newsletters that you receive lots of e-mail or telephone inquiries from those who need help. Instead of Google searching for different services available in their city (Salvation Army, food bank, etc.) you might recommend that they call 2-1-1. It is a phone service partnered with the United Way that works like 9-1-1, so you can call from any phone free of charge. Although not available everywhere, I know the call centers are growing and sprouting up in more and more places so this service may become more widely available. This number gives people information and access to a plethora of social services available. Just thought I’d let you know about this wonderful service and hopefully you will pass the info along!

Best Regards,

Chelsea L. Osterberg

Resource Development Assistant

United Way of Whatcom County

1511 Cornwall Avenue

Bellingham, WA 98225

Phone: (360) 733-8670 ext. 101

Fax: (360 733-8674

www.unitedwaywhatcom.org

This article appeared on the website at www.ebpublishing.com about one of our members.  Donna is truly a committed member.

By : Emma Krasov : 2/5/08 Donna Butler-Gates lives in San Leandro, and works all over Alameda County out of her van, where “Donna’s Pet Grooming Mobile Service” is based. Traveling with her business, Butler-Gates spends many hours in Castro Valley, Hayward, Union City, San Leandro, ... ... San Lorenzo, Oakland, Fremont, Alameda, and Pleasanton, serving both dogs and cats during her usual hour and a half grooming sessions. “In my travel, I often see homeless people, and I always think, this is someone’s child...” said Butler-Gates. “I see people with dogs. I know that 90% of homeless shelters won’t accept pets, so these people choose to stay with their pet friends in the streets instead of leaving them for a shelter.” When Butler-Gates found out about the Feeding Pets of the Homeless nation-wide organization, she decided she “needed to be a part of it,” so she joined in April last year. “It is designed to bring communities together,” she said, “to help the poor and disadvantaged folks—mostly targeting homeless and their pets.” As a member of the organization, Butler-Gates made her goal “to get people across the Bay Area, anywhere from San Jose to Berkeley, or even Albany to put up receptacles for pet donations in the area.” As a client of Castro Valley’s Hill’s Veterinary Hospital on Redwood Road, she initiated a donation drive in the facility, that started accepting pet food, leashes, bedding, dishes, toys, and flea treatment kits a couple of weeks ago. “I pick up supplies at Dr. Robert Hill’s hospital, and deliver them to Hayward family resource center, which conducts distribution,” said Butler-Gates. “We collect non-perishable food for dogs and cats, all kinds of pet beds, toys, collars—anything can be used. Cash donations are used for medical treatment of homeless pets and to buy food for them. It has been a big response, and I am kind of busy collecting donations, but we need much more. We help not only homeless pet owners, but those who live below the poverty level and are not able to provide for their pets.” In her publicity efforts, Butler- Gates called San Francisco radio and television stations in order to encourage others to put up pet donation receptacles and to donate supplies. “I want to get on TV, to partner with soup kitchens in the area, to get it all moving,” she said. “It’ll take a while, but we have a great response, and we can reach our goals. As a fact, last year, when I first joined Feeding Pets of the Homeless, in one month we collected about a hundred pounds of pet food.” She added that all kinds of pet donations and cash are equally important, and that Hill’s Veterinary Hospital is the place for Castro Valley residents where they can become a part in this noble mission. To donate, bring or send pet food or supplies to: Hill’s Veterinary Hospital, 22163 Redwood Rd., CV. For info., call 881-5811 or visit petsofhomeless.com.

On January 3, 2008 we received this message:

Homeless people with pets is one of the dumbest ideas I've ever heard of. The people are homeless for God's sake! If they can't take  care of themselves, why in the world would they get a pet to not be able to take care of? This is not at all fair to the pet who deserves to have an owner to take care of him? Homeless people obviously know that they can't afford to take care of a pet so instead of taking "in" a pet so they can blame the veterinarian for being '"greedy" or the government for not helping them, perhaps they should not get a pet and abuse/neglect it (by starvation or freezing temperatures- which I believe is animal cruelty) and try to take care of their selves first. Unless of coarse they only want the pet to try to get money. Again, this is animal cruelty and should be reported. There is no excuse.

Dear Adele,

The world is not a perfect place and people struggle everyday, some more than others.  The subject of homeless having pets is controversial and there have been editorials about it in a number of magazines.  The bottom line is there will always be less fortunate who crave a pet’s love and devotion.  Our organization is taking a small step to help those who need it by providing pet food and pet medical treatment.    I have copied a few of the comments I have received from visitors to the website.  There are many others.  Please take a few minutes to read these and the others on the website site under “Comments”, you may learn more about the subject. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dear Genevieve,

thank you so much for your kind comments! I've been waiting with bated breath for the barrage of angry people who feel that the poor don't deserve pets, nor should be taking away food from the poor.....

Nearly half of the people who come to our food pantry, whether homeless or living in extreme poverty have a pet. We uncovered this statistic a couple of years ago, when a local vet was providing us with nearly 500 pounds of dog and cat food a month. We were stunned at the number of people who were going hungry themselves to feed an animal ~ or were sharing their emergency food boxes with their pets. I can't begin to describe how grateful these people were; it certainly made me realize that this was an element of homelessness & poverty that we had totally overlooked. We don't have a regular supplier of pet food at the moment ~ it comes in spurts; otherwise, I'd be putting our pantry on your list of doggie food banks :) I missed your site when doing some preliminary web research, otherwise I would have posted a link to it for sure. I will be sure to pass the word along though, and post a link on my blog which also touches down on this issue.

thank you so much, and the note of encouragement!

Jeanne

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It's great that there's an organization assisting the homeless with companionship... Helps them to feel needed in a society that generally feels they could live without them. A very compassionate organization.   
Here's some others about homeless in general and how it might relate to helping pets: 
 From a guest Lecture: The homeless are generally people who have a difficult time functioning with jobs in our society. A majority of them are mentally ill, addicts, or people who have simply had bad luck in life. Society has misjudged them as lazy people who simply don't want to work. This is completely untrue. Society needs to find a way to put them to work. Unfortunately, in order for us to have the extreme rich, we need the extreme poor. (Personally, the guest lecturer found the homeless very kind people with a strong community bond.)  
~Ok, that's just a small portion of her lecture but I can relate this to them having pets.~ 
 Some in society might feel that a lazy homeless person doesn't deserve a pet. Especially if they feel like any homeless individual can just go out and get a job. They also might feel like any money they charitably give to a homeless individual's pet will go into drugs rather than food.  
 Another opinion: I don't like the idea of people going out and begging for money. They end up expecting you to take care of them. I don't get handouts in life, why should they.  
 How this might relate to their opinion of the homeless' pets: Now they expect me to take care of their pets too?! Bring them to the SPCA, they'll take care of them and find them a nice home.  
 Another opinion: I don't like giving my hard earned money to the homeless but if I find someone who's really respectful when they ask me for money, I'll give them a couple of bucks. In fact, I regularly give a nice homeless Native Indian man a couple of bucks every time I pass him. And if he has a friend with him, I'll give them both some money. 
 If I like the homeless individual who's asking for help, I'll help their dog too.  
 Ok, I've given out a few opinions I've heard from others that I really hope we can all be mature enough to ensure it doesn't lead to a heated discussion. But maybe this will be a nice gateway for people to express themselves freely on this link... 
 Personally, I agree with the idea that the homeless are in need of some TLC. It's nice to see that they can have companionship and love from a pet and that this organization recognizes the need. However, I have a thought that makes me feel a little awkward ~ the homeless may not feel like they are able to go to anyone to ensure proper care of the animals without fear of having them taken away. There's quite a bit of information on how to care for a pet on-line but it seems like much of it requires income that the homeless don't have. Shelters won't even consider allowing you to have a pet unless you allow them to tour your home... Which, of course, the homeless don't have. The pets have chosen their loving companionship. Any thoughts on this issue? Like I said, it makes me feel awkward, and, outside of the organization mentioned, I'm not sure people really recognize the need for both individual and pets.  

Dear Genevieve,

I admit, you have a point, the love of a pet is like no other, and why should anyone be deprived of it rich or poor. Thank you for your care of the homeless people and pets. My point however, sorry that I came across so strong, is that is it fair to pets to also be homeless on the street and hungry ( in the pics on your webpage all the pets are leashed which to me shows being held there if they want to be or not) also? I am a supporter of the homeless people and pets -being a registered veterinary technician I have more than a few homeless pets in my home, if only it were that easy for people, to just have a foster home until you find your permanent home. I think you are doing a wonderful thing, Ms. Frederick, my question is , it about the people or the animals?

Dear Adele,

Thank you for your reply. 

is it about the people or the animals?

That is a good question.  My answer would have to be, both. 

When the homeless receive pet food, they are truly grateful because they know they have a responsibility to their pet.  The pets receive nutritional food and stay healthier.  The bond between the human and the pet is re-enforced and strengthen.

The program also serves families living in poverty who get food from food banks and the disabled and elderly who are enrolled in Meals on Wheels programs across the country.

There is mounting evidence that all people need pets.  A leading proponent of this theory, Dr. Boris Levinson, Professor of Psychology at Yeshiva University and a clinical psychotherapist, stated in his 1997 book Pet-Oriented Child Psychotherapy:  “In this very busy twentieth century, man is a lonely creature.  There are too many alienated individuals who lack human companionship.  They lack purpose and productivity.  A simple addition to these lonely lives can sometimes accomplish major changes.  The possession of a pet, who eagerly awaits one and responds to one's care and attention, may mean the difference between maintaining contact with reality or almost total withdrawal into fantasy.  Literally, a pet can occasionally represent the difference between life and death.”

“Other apparent reasons why people need pets are the increasingly urban nature of our society, the separation of children and adults from farm animals and from nature, the separation of families, where older persons and unmarried adults often live alone, and the desire for personal protection.”

 If our organization can help people keep their pets by feeding them and providing medical care, we will continue help both, human and pet.

On December 28, 2007 we received this message:

I am working on putting together a video/slideshow that is about homeless animals as well as homeless people and I would especially like to focus on homeless people & their pets. 
And, so..... I am sending you this email requesting permission to use the photos from any/all of the pages listed above.  This video is not going to be used for profit in any way, it is just going to be an expression of some of the thoughts & feelings that have inside of me. I hope this video will inspire at least one person that sees it to take the time to consider the reality that so many in our society live with every day.  And hopefully one more helping hand might be offered to help.

Thank you for your consideration in this matter.
Sincerely,

Sheila Price



I myself was one of those people.  Until recently, I was homeless & living out of my car.  My boyfriend & I usually slept on the couch at various different acquaintances' & relatives houses when we could not afford a motel room. Then about six years ago, I walked into a house that belonged to a friend of a friend. The man that lived there was supposed to be taking care of our mutual friend's dog..... But, when I walked in the door I saw the dog was covered in cuts & gashes (many were still open and bleeding)  and I asked what had happened to the dog.  His reply was, "I beat her ass with the weed-whacker." He snickered to himself with amusement when he told me this & he pointed to the corner of the room where I saw a weed-eater with blood and clumps of fur on it.  So I IMMEDIATELY removed the dog from the situation.  I did not have anywhere of my own to call home at the time,  much less anywhere I could go with the dog. So from that night on I slept in the car with the dog while my boyfriend slept in the house on the couch of whatever person's home we were staying at on any  given night.  My dog & I lived in the car through winters & summers & everything in between for almost 5 years, because I did not have anywhere to go where I could have my dog too. About a year ago however my parents asked me to move back into their house because they didn't like me sleeping in my car somewhere. And they agreed to let me keep my dog at their house too since they know that if the dog doesn't come with then I am not going to go.  I hope that good luck like mine will find the many homeless & their pets too.

Dear Sheila,

Your story is heartbreaking as well as uplifting.  Life can get better.  Thank you for saving that poor physically abused dog and taking on the responsibility of providing for him.  He will be your loyal companion for his whole life.  If you believe in karma; you have been blessed with this dog and he will not fail you because you saved him.

Dear Genevieve Frederick,

Thank you so very much for letting me use the pics from your site.  I will credit every one of the photographers. I was planning to include your website in the video even if you didn't give me permission to use the pics,  because I think that your website is a must see for people everywhere.

It would be an honor to me,  for you to add my dog & my story to your website.  I  would like to suggest a story that I feel would be even better than mine for your website also.  I am not sure of where/who from this story originated, but it is one of the favorites for myself & the animal rescue people that I network with on MySpace & Care2.com (as well as a few other sites too)  and I am certain that it is alright for this story to be posted by those that feel it touches a special part inside of our hearts.  Every day I think about this story. It is, to me, one of the most beautiful stories I have ever heard & when I think of it I am reminded that there are good people out there that love their pets the same way I do & that makes things a little more bearable for me with my daily efforts to combat animal cruelty & neglect. And I know that if people like me & the man in this story (it is a true story) can do for our pets what they need, then there is no excuse for why others who are far better in a position to care for another than we are/were to not care for the pets that they have chosen to be responsible for. 

Ok. Enough rambling on from me. Here is the story:
____________________________________________



In the pecking order of man and beast, there was no lower rung than the one shared by Randy Vargas and Foxy on the streets of Hoboken.

He was 46 and homeless, regular work like that fondly remembered machine-shop job long in the past. She was a member of dogdom's least-fashionable demographic, a 10-year-old brindled pit bull, compact as a pickup truck, ears askew, two-tone face, white neck, the rest an arbitrary mix of light and dark.

And yet in this city increasingly defined by creatures who drew the long straw — winners in real estate and on Wall Street, sleek goldens, pampered Yorkies, fashionable puggles and doodles — there was something transcendent in their bond.

Maybe in a world of opaque relationships, theirs was a lesson in clarity like a parable from the Bible. He had rescued her back when she was homeless and abused, a scared runty thing living with homeless men who had no use for her. She in turn gave him purpose and companionship and love.

Maybe it was how the relationship brought out the best in both. It brought him to life and into the world, as much a part of Hoboken street life as any young comer with his black Lab. And it made her a creature of eternal sweetness, unfailingly friendly to people and animals, tail wagging at the merest glance, a pit bull in name but not metaphor.

So if you spent any time in Hoboken the odds are pretty good you would have seen the two of them, sleeping in front of SS. Peter and Paul Parish Center, visiting the Hoboken Animal Hospital, walking down the street — the dog keeping perfect pace with him, dressed in winter in raffish layers of sweatshirts and T-shirts plucked from the St. Mary's Hospital Thrift Store, she keeping perfect pace with him.

Cheryl Lamoreaux remembered seeing Mr. Vargas resting on a condo's shaded concrete steps on a sweltering August weekend day, flat on his back with Foxy in the same position one step below. It was the perfect image of man and dog, she said, and added, "This really was a dog with a deep soul."

Everyone who knew them said the same thing: Mr. Vargas cared for the dog better than for himself.

"If it was the dead of winter, the dog would get all the blankets, he'd get the sidewalk with nothing on it," said Robin Murphy, a groomer at the Hoboken Animal Hospital. "If it was raining, he'd put the umbrella up for the dog before he'd put it up for himself."

But there's not much margin for error at the bottom rung. Once this winter, he was arrested, accused of making threatening remarks to women. The case was dismissed, and friends say it should never have gone that far. But Ms. Murphy had to rescue Foxy from the pound in Newark, where she could have been euthanized.

It all ended so fast, people still can't explain it. Aside from a dog run, she had seldom been seen off the leash, but on the morning of March 19 in the park, she was. She saw a dog she knew across Hudson Street, dashed across to say hello and was hit by a white pickup that stopped briefly and then sped off.

He held the dog, blood spurting from her mouth, and waved at passing cars, but none stopped. So he carried her 60 pounds, feeling the broken bones in his hand, as far as he could, then put her down and ran to the animal hospital for help. But it was too late.

People come by every day, some fighting back tears, to leave donations, more than $900 so far. Some come from people who knew them, most from people who felt like they did. Alone they might have been invisible. Together, they were impossible to miss.

In different ways, they're still around. Her picture is in some store windows, wearing a gray sweatshirt with a red T-shirt under it, gazing to the right like a sentry, a wondrous study in essence of dog with a touch of human thrown in. Since the accident Mr. Vargas has had good days and bad ones, sometimes being up and around, sometimes, like the other day, looking groggy and defeated under his red comforter on the street. "I feel," he told a friend, "like I have a hole in my soul."

At the animal hospital they're buying a pendant to hold some of her ashes that he can wear around his neck. Friends check on him regularly, bring him food, talk of finally getting him a place to live. There's talk of getting him a new dog when he's ready, which surely isn't now.

"It's like most relationships," he said from under the red blanket. "You have to wait for the right time."

You can find it on either of the following links:

A Pit Bull Who Provided Lessons in Loyalty & Unfailing Love

 A Pit Bull That Provided Lessons in Loyalty & Unfailing Love

_____________________________________________________________
Thank you again for allowing me the use of the pics for my video that I am working on. When I finish it, would you like me to email you a copy of it or the link to view it online? I apologize for taking so long to respond to your message. I am so happy that there is finally a website that focuses on the homeless & their pets. Hopefully one day society will no longer be as ignorant to the issue, and people will stop turning a deaf ear and a blind eye to the reality that they insist upon denying;  yet clearly based upon their actions, it is a reality that they have accepted.

Thank you again,
    ~Sheila & the dogs~

 

January 10, 2008

Hi Genevieve,
 
I wanted to give you and update of my earlier comment.  I learned tonight that one of the men who chose to live in such horrible conditions rather than take an apartment and lose his dog, has died.  He was so sick on Christmas day.  There was a volunteer that kept checking in on these people and let us know about the death.  His beloved dog has been placed in a loving foster home.  My heart is heavy to know that he gave his life for the love of his "best friend".  May he now have peace and his spirit not be forgotten.  He has certainly touched my heart.
 
Debby Welsh

December 26, 2007

Dear Debra,

It is the stories like yours that keep us motivated to continue to work to help the homeless with pets.  

We understand exactly why the homeless choose to stay where they are; their pets provide them with loyalty, love and comfort that an apartment can not.  It’s too bad the social services do not understand that bond between humans and animals.  

The reason the food bank may not distribute pet food is because no one is donating it to them and they do not understand how important it is for these people.  So that’s where you come in.  Do you have a retail business that the public can put donated pet food into a receptacle?  Maybe one of the members of your rescue group could provide a location?  Next enroll in the program and we give you step by step instructions and help you get the publicity that will enlighten and bring the public to donate.  And we’ll tell you how to approach the food bank so they will distribute the pet food that you collect.  It’s a win, win for everyone, especially the pets.  

What you described is an example of a place where a veterinarian would be able to provide some medical care to the pets.  We are offering grants to licensed veterinarians who want to help.  The application and guidelines are available by emailing us.  So if you know a kind hearted vet who would volunteer their time, we could give him/her the money for the meds.   

Question:

December 13, 2007

Dear Lisa,

Like many cities across the country Portland has a large population of families in transition. I know of no agency or organization that could help you with your problem. I do know that the organization in my town that offers temporary housing to families has made arrangements with the local animal shelter to kennel the pets until the head of the household can make arrangements for permanent housing. The shelter allows the family to visit daily and take the pet out for walks etc. It is a hard time for the youngster that must be separated from their loving, and devoted pet. Maybe you can speak to the director of your local shelter or an organization that provides foster care for pets to assist you so families can be sure to be reunited with their pets. Thank you for your compassion to the families that come to you for help. May your own life be full of peace, love and prosperity,

Genevieve Frederick

Hello,

I am a case aide at Friendly House, a social service agency in

Portland, Oregon that finds transitional housing for homeless

families. I often come across the difficult dilemma homeless families

face when they are told our apartment units don't allow pets. I

wonder if you know of an agency or organization that will foster

animals for families in transition. I would love to be able to assure

these families that their beloved pet will not be euthanized while

they are getting back on their feet.

Any ideas or advice would be warmly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Lisa Freeman

Case Aide, Friendly House, Inc.

Portland, OR

December 12, 2007

Dear Tracy,

Thanks for writing.  In your research did you find out how many homeless have pets in your area?  There is a huge problem across the country, not only in Buffalo.  There are no shelters that will allow pets.  The only exception is if the pet is a service animal.  Most shelters are overcrowded (especially in the winter) and short of funds to operate so the likelihood of making room for those with pets is almost zero.  Educating the people who run the shelters is a start in solving this problem.  They need to know how important pets are to the people they service.  My program is going non-profit after the first of the year, and I will be able to spend more time advocating to shelters the importance of allowing pets with their guardians.  Pet food can help ease the plight of the homeless and I hope you can talk to the management of the animal shelter about “Feeding Pets of the Homeless” and how important for them to join.  Not only will joining help pets of the homeless but it will bring the issue to the forefront of the public in Buffalo.  The program is easy to start and comes with step-by-step instructions and worksheets to keep on the right track.  Maybe you can be the volunteer that administers the program for the shelter.   

Thank you for caring for others in your community.

Dear Ms. Frederick,

Could you please tell me how I can start up a program to collect pet food or help homeless people  find shelter that accept their pets?  I live in a suburb of the City of Buffalo (Upstate New York). 

For background about me and why I am asking, I am a new volunteer at the City of Buffalo Animal Shelter.  At one of our recent Pet Smart events, in which we promote animal adoption, a poor man came to us and told us  that many homeless people are refused shelter by the Buffalo City Mission if they insist to stay with their pet.  I guess we were all very busy and did not take the time to really ask him more questions, in which I now regret.   When I came home,  I began to research this to see if it really was a problem.  I soon found out that indeed it is, and I wish I knew how to talk to this man further.  Hopefully, we will cross our paths again.

Therefore, I am writing to you for guidance on how I can help the homeless and their pets in my very own City.  Thanks for any help.

Thanks

Tracy

December 2, 2007

Hello,

I am a manager of a pet supply store in Newington, NH. Today during my lunch break I was flipping through Pet Product News from September when I came across the small article on this program. I fell in love with it from the start. Obviously working in my field, I love animals but I also have a soft spot for homeless. This program just seems amazing.

I have checked out the website and I am very interested in possibly getting my store enrolled. I am going to speak to my other employees and see what they think but I think it would be great not only for our company but for the people and their pets as well. We do so much for local shelters and rescue groups, but I think this would be a great addition for us.

Thank you so much for everything you have done, and I am looking forward to encouraging my employees and help out.

Sarah

November 14, 2007

Dear Alette,

Thank you for contacting me.  Homelessness is everywhere and across all our borders.  I do not know of any organizations in Canada.

I would love to spread my organization into Canada and have plans to do so in the future.  Right now, I am concentrating my marketing and promotions in the U.S.   If you know of any pet related businesses or veterinarians that would like to enroll please direct them to the website to enroll.   

Warm regards,

Genevieve Frederick

Hi,

I work for the National Homelessness Partnership Secretariat in Canada as a policy analyst.  It's a Canadian federal government funding program.

I came across your organization on-line and commend you for the work you do.  At the governmental level there is nothing going on to address issues to do with pets of the homeless and the needs of homeless people with pets.  I did a little google search to try and find an organization like yours in Canada, but came up with nothing.   I was wondering if you are in contact with anyone in Canada doing similar work.  I would appreciate any contacts you could provide me with.

Thank you and all the best in your work,

 Alette Willis, PhD

November 12, 2007 - Carol Scott

Just a note to say thank you for feeding the pets of the homeless. I am a Katrina survivor – lost in Arkansas, no job, no phone and on the brink of disaster… with 2 dogs, one of whom is in the hospital and needs to go to the hospital at LSU Vet School, 8 hours away… and someone decided to run a stop sign and totaled my car. You have no idea what it would mean to me to know that my dogs could eat, no matter what happens to me… or even if I could find someone to take me to see the one who is in the hospital.  All of this, not just because of Katrina – she just finished me off… it began over 10 years ago when I was very ill and needed surgery during a time when I was not covered by insurance.

October 2007 - Diana Miller

The Pets of Our Homeless

Recently I read an article (Pets of the Homeless) regarding the number of homeless in our country and their pets. (Fido Friendly, August 2007) Most people at first glance would think, "why would someone who can't house or feed themselves, keep a pet"? Well, simply put, pets are so very good for all people, as companions. For many of us, our pets are the ones at home when we arrive after a long day of work or play. They are the ones that will love us back no matter what kind of day we have had. They share unconditional love with us. Our homeless are, more often then not, very lonely. Most are down on their luck for one reason or another. Mental illness is a big contributor to our homeless population along with drug and alcohol addition.
 Many have pets because it keeps them "in tune" with reality. "It's what keeps them from crossing the line between reality and fantasy." We need to help feed our homeless and their pets.
Until recently there wasn't any kind of help for them nor their pets. In late 2006 "Feeding Pets of the Homeless" was launched. They have partnered with many Veterinary hospitals and clinics. They collect pet food from their clients in their own communities through a campaign. The clinics and hospitals then partner with local food banks and shelters so that these items can be distributed to the homeless with pets. It's a wonderful concept where our homeless can receive a meal and also know their pet will have some nutrition as well.
The article was shocking to me since I have never given any thought to our homeless with pets. I hope that when you see a campaign that is collecting pet food items you will give generously. We need more people to donate food and pet food for our homeless so that maybe some of their despair will be eased. Who knows, maybe my donation of dog food and "people" food might make the difference in one persons life for even one day. For more information on For more information on this most worthwhile cause please go to www.petsofhomeless.com. You too will be inspired.

Do something different this holiday season! Plan ahead and Give!
 

October 2, 2007

Suellen wrote to tell us her son has been located in California.  We are thankful and hope that his family can begin to heal.  We wish them well.

August 22, 2007

Dear Suellen,

 My heart goes out to you.  I am so glad that this photo might help you find your son.  I received the call from the editor of “Pet Product News” regarding your call to her and pray that this brings you a step closer to your long search.  Of course, I will put something on the website under his photo.  With your permission I will add:

 Noel Mathew Cowley, aged 29 has been missing for almost two years.

If you know him or can help locate him, please email his family at dragonzdreamz@aol.com

With warmest thoughts and wishes,  Genevieve

The man in the first photo is my son who has been missing for almost two years.  Is there any way you could put a little blurb under the photo asking people to email me if they see him please?  We have been looking for him to bring him home.  We thought he might be dead.  I was shocked to see the photo yesterday when I opened my Pet Product News, Sept issue. At least now I know he is alive & we have some idea where to continue our search.