Give a Dog a Bone Week takes place during the first week of August, so the dates change yearly. Pets of the Homeless, a non-profit organization based in Nevada, created the event to “raise awareness and to help local communities across the US raise donations of pet food and supplies for pets of the houseless population.”1
Pets of the Homeless was founded by Genevieve Frederick and provides medical care and food for animal companions of unhoused individuals. You can help out by donating pet food, toys, and other supplies during Give a Dog a Bone Week. The organization’s website has a search engine you can use to find donation sites, and there are more than 200 locations across the US.
How Many Unhoused Individuals Are There in the US?
Estimates vary from 500,000 to more than 1.5 million and vary largely between sources. Some surveys, for instance, exclude those currently living with family members or friends. Others only count those without permanent housing on a specific day.
How Many Unhoused Individuals Have Pets?
Anywhere from 5% to 10% of the unhoused population in the US has a companion animal. Many shelters that offer temporary housing do not allow pets, which can force individuals to choose between beloved companion animals and physical safety.
What Services Does the Organization Provide?
Pets of the Homeless partners with organizations and veterinarians around the US to provide food, supplies, and medical care to unhoused individuals’ companion animals. It works with food banks, soup kitchens, and shelters to collect and deliver food, supplies, and medical care to the pets of those without permanent housing.
The organization also sponsors low and no-cost veterinary wellness clinics in locations already serving the needs of unhoused individuals. Veterinarians donate their time, and Pets of the Homeless covers the medical supplies. The clinics generally offer various services, including vaccinations, exams, and ear cleanings.
It also has an emergency veterinary care program, linking those in need with medical professionals able to help. The organization provides free crates to shelters for the unhoused, allowing crated companion animals to stay with their humans.
Pets of the Homeless has a comprehensive website full of helpful information, including resources for those in need and those looking for ways to help. It has an extensive list of state and national resources, such as information for veterans and domestic violence victims.
Conclusion
The first week of August is Give a Dog a Bone Week. Pets of the Homeless created the event to raise awareness of the difficulties unhoused individuals face caring for companion animals. Many struggle to provide their pets with food and medical care. Pets of the Homeless works with local organizations and veterinarians to support the needs of unhoused individuals and their pets. To help out, consider donating pet food, supplies, or toys during Give a Dog a Bone Week. Pets of the Homeless also has volunteer opportunities if you are interested in more hands-on involvement.
Featured Image Credit: Kenky, Pixabay
