Why Do The Homeless Have Pets?

Preconceived Notions

• I always had preconceived notions for homeless people with pets. I questioned if they had the financial resources to have a pet, why would they be homeless?
• I questioned if they were capable of taking care of a pet if they are unable to take care of themselves.
• I questioned if they were right to make the pet stay with them through hard times.

Why?

Why do homeless people have pets? 5-10% of homeless people have dogs or cats. In some areas, the rate is as high as 24%. Pets provide a deep comfort to homeless people. They are non-judgemental, loyal, and provide warmth and security. The homeless get a type of normalcy by providing food to their pets. It is found that some homeless people are willing to sacrifice their own food for their pets. On the other hand, the pets also provide protection to the homeless.

No Judgement

Because of these facts, we should not judge homeless people with pets. Their finances do not indicate what kind of person they are, what they are capable of, how much love they deserve, and where it should come from. A struggling person deserves an intimate connection too. Dogs are resilient creatures and are able to endure any weather they face. The warmth they share with their owners helps a lot.

Cost & Food Care

Many homeless individuals found that food was not a problem when having pets. Passerbyers were more likely to donate food and money when there is a pet. Moreover, there are many groups out there that provide free clinical veterinary care for homeless pets. 

Good Pet Ownership

Homeless pet owners face a lot of negative stigma. I remember when watching the video from Part 2 of this assignment, one of the comments noted how it seems like the poorest people are the ones with pets. Well these homeless people treat their pets like one else does. These pets may stay by their side 24/7. They eat more than the homeless individual does and they receive way more attention. 

Conclusion

We shouldn't judge how the homeless have pets. On many occasions, the pets receive better companionship and care that they ever will. The pets also provide a reciprocal relationship to the owner and truly represent themselves as "man's best friend".