We’ve all seen the images of a homeless person sitting along a roadside with his brave dog by his side.

While it’s difficult to determine how many homeless people have pets, most studies believe it’s between 6 and 24%. These studies also indicate that these pets are well-cared for and often serve as stability for their homeless owners.

August is National Dog Month. And it’s a great month to explore how pets can help work as emotional support for a homeless person.

But we must also realize that not all shelters and temporary housing can accept pets. That means we have to find avenues to help those homeless people, along with the animals they love.

Happy and Safe

According to Psychology Today, the pets of homeless individuals develop a unique relationship because they are so devoted to one another. And when a homeless person becomes hospitalized or otherwise separated from their pet, both the pet and the person experience very real separation anxiety.

A Canadian-based survey from 2021 points out that animals owned by those experiencing homelessness are generally in good health and only experience problems similar to those of pets in traditional house settings.

Pets also serve as a source of stability and security. For example, when the weather is cold, having a soft and warm companion to cuddle with makes a big difference in an unhoused person’s comfort levels. Dogs, in particular, also work to keep a homeless person safe. Unfortunately, life on the streets can be dangerous, and a dog can serve as a protector if someone gets too close.

Most studies have shown that homeless people report that their pets provide them with a sense of responsibility, reduce substance abuse and motivate them to seek permanent shelter.

The Challenge

Unfortunately, most shelters or temporary housing units aren’t equipped to handle pets. Because of safety concerns, insurance restrictions or simple logistics, it can be difficult to help someone who has a pet. TORCH, for example, does not allow pets in our properties, so we have worked with our homeless clients to find alternative solutions, such as pet fosters.

But the simple truth is that if a homeless client has a pet, their chances of finding housing decreases by about 90% when they want to bring their pets into housing with them.

Only about 9% of rental properties allow pets, which makes it harder to find permanent housing. Most local public housing allows pets but places restrictions on them. The Oak Ridge Housing Authority (ORHA) restricts the type and size and requires they be vaccinated. They also require a pet deposit, which can be difficult for people trying to get back on their feet.

The most common type of income-based housing is through Section 8 vouchers. This federal program helps low-income families find housing in the private market by providing assistance with rental costs. Since these residences are privately owned, the landlord has the last say on whether pets are permitted.

Many animal advocacy groups have begun to prioritize strategies to help people and their pets stay together. In Tennessee, Memphis Animal Services has created the Pet Resource Center to help owners find alternatives to relinquishing their pets.

There is a challenge in helping homeless families with pets find a permanent home. Innovative alternatives are discussed every day. It’s certainly an issue we consider, but we still advise that people seek the help they need. That may even mean that the pet has to be fostered or even adopted by another loving family.

If you are homeless in Anderson County or know someone who is, contact TORCH today at (865) 318-4788 or fill out a form online.