Japan Dog Fighting is Still Legal - Page 5

We have similar initiatives here in the UK to ensure people, esp women, escaping violence in relationships can either take their dogs with them into hostels etc, or can have the dog secretly & safely fostered, until they can be re-housed.

We also have at least one set of hostels for the homeless (ie not necessarily about domestic violence) where pets can be accommodated with their owners; I support those over the hostels and other projects for rough sleepers which do not allow dogs & cats to be housed, as these animals can literally be life savers for people who are forced to sleep on the streets.

From a mental health perspective, a homeless person with a dog will often fare better than one without.  It seems that the dog gives the homeless person unconditional love and acceptance as well as give the homeless person a reason outside themselves to get up and get going (some have said they are working toward their first room so their dog can have a roof over its head, or to stop drinking so they have more money for a room and food).  I have seen many homeless people give their dog the last bit of food (not always dog appropriate but it is the sentiment that counts).  We have a few vets here that donate time once a month to provide veterinary care, spay/neuter, vaccinations, teeth cleaning, and any other care the dog may need.  Many pet stores, Tractor Supply, and Veterinary clinics will donate leashes, food, portable bowls, and even some small dog carriers.  Everyone does better with a dog.

mindhunt, I can say the exact same thing about my 92 yo Dad, who still lives on his own.

He has a shih tzu rescue that is 13 yo. he has had "Harley" for 13 years and my sisters and I dread him ever being without him.

I visit him every day, Harley is seriously spoiled and constantly requiring my dad to move. get him a treat, let him out, get up and close the door when he comes back in. get him another treat for going out. Harley is so spoiled that my dad has to give him a treat for eating his evening meal. but, it requires him to move and I never say anything.

I can say that I feel this companionship has not only added to my dads quality of life but also to his cognitive abilities.

jmo,
Rik

Scientific research has shown (generally) people with cat(s) and/or dog(s) live longer, have less mental and physical illness, and are happier than people without.

For anyone, including homeless, a dog, even a small one, can protect his/her person, just by alerting the person to danger or the approach of other people or animals. Of course if it's a well-trained large(r) dog, there's extra deterrence.