Instability and uncertainty pervade homeless populations. Pets infuse many homeless people with a sense of devotion and purpose. A homeless person will first share their spoils of food with their pets before taking a bite themselves. But to whom do these people turn when their furry family need medical care? Veterinary services are expensive and not always accessible to homeless people.
Robert Mack, a DVM for 30 years, understands how the high cost of animal care severely stretches the resources of society’s insecure. That’s why, on the second Tuesday of each month, he goes to Portland’s Blanchet House to give pet advice to the homeless. Blanchet House, a social services program, offers food, housing, and recovery to people in need.
Mack also serves on the board of directors of Oregon Humane Society (OHS), which hosted a free vaccine clinic at Blanchet House this week. The retired veterinarian praised homeless pet parents for how well they care for their animals.
“Most of them, not surprisingly, seem pretty healthy and pretty happy. These dogs mean an unbelievable amount to these people. I like to say they’re nonjudgmental,” Mack told local Fox affiliate, KPTV.
When pets require a higher level of care, Mack refers clients to free or low-cost clinics like the OHS Community Veterinary Hospital. “I just want to give back to the animals a little bit . . .”
Mahmood Naraghi was grateful to get his four-month-old Vanilla’s vaccines up to date. “She’s like part of me, you know?” Naraghi said. “She’s my girl and I love her so much, you know. Dog is a man’s best friend, so I really want to take care of her,” Mahmood Naraghi said. “It was very awesome, very good people. I enjoyed them a lot.”
Along with a complete exam, dogs and cats got outfitted with winter coats, new leashes and toys. Last January, OHS distributed 20 backpacks filled with blankets, socks, water bottles, and other much-needed supplies to members of the Blanchet House community.
Other organizations in the Portland metro area work to help pets and their homeless owners thrive. In the early 1990s, a small grassroots network of volunteer veterinarians addressed the needs of the homeless and their pets. From those humble beginnings, the Portland Animal Welfare Team (PAW) formed in 2003. Each year, PAW Team provides over 1,000 local families in need with access to vaccinations, microchipping, flea/parasite prevention, spay and neuter procedures, as well as medication and management of some chronic conditions. In addition to veterinary care, PAW Team operates a free Pet Supply Bank with pet supply essentials like food, litter, coats, leashes, and more.
Check your local area for shelters and rescues assisting the homeless and their pets. Together, we can lift the spirits and purpose of those who feel forgotten.