Pets of the Homeless partners with veterinary clinics and community organizations across the country to collect pet food which can then be distributed to the homeless population. They are the only national animal organization focused completely on feeding and providing emergency care to pets of the homeless.

We’ve partnered with Pets of the Homeless because we saw a need in our community and across Wake County which was not being met. Nationwide, 3.5 million people are homeless and roughly 10% of them own pets. Homelessness continues to be a heartbreaking reality for many of our friends and neighbors, often due to unforeseen job loss, mental illnesses, disabilities and/or substance abuse. Some are fleeing violent homes. Many are our veterans. Although the statistics in North Carolina outlined a decline in homelessness in 2017, Wake County saw an increase in this population. In Wake County alone over 4,000 people experienced homelessness in the last year. On an average night in 2017 over 900 individuals were living on the streets.

Pets provide emotional support, comfort, warmth, and stability for people during times of crisis and loneliness. At times they may be the homeless person’s sole friend and companion. While their current circumstance may feel uncertain and unstable, the homeless can benefit from the sense of normalcy that providing food and water to their pets brings. They also provide safety at times when individuals are in dangerous situations, particularly women and those with disabilities. Dogs and cats are also, as we know, amazing companions who simply find us when we need them the most.

Regardless of how their situation arose, the intense bond between humans and their pets is undeniable. Most homeless owners will make sure their pets eat before they feed themselves. We would like to do what we can so that our neighbors in need and their fur babies can both have an opportunity to eat. By giving through our donation site you not only help a dog/cat in need but also make sure that the owner is able to spend the few resources they have on themselves.

Please consider bringing an unopened bag (or can) of food to the clinic to donate to Pet of the Homeless. Each donation is an incredible act of empathy and compassion and we thank you sincerely for considering joining us in this cause.

Please contact us if you would like more information on this program.

To learn more about Pets of the Homeless on the national level, visit https://www.petsofthehomeless.org.