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We are extremely honored to have received a Certificate of Appreciation that was presented to Feeding Pets of the Homeless by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute in recognition of Outstanding Contributions to Advancing the Human-Animal Bond and Creating a More Pet-Friendly Society.
Pet ownership is booming. A recent survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association revealed that close to 90 million U.S. households now own pets. This means that there are now far more households in the U.S. that own pets than those that don’t.
Homelessness is surging as well. According to the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, there was an increase of 9% in LA County and a 10% increase in the City of LA. Chicago increased 57% and Portland saw a 20% increase. San Bernardino County is up 26%, San Diego County is up 22%, Kern County is up 22% and Riverside County is up 12%.
Another cause of rising rates of homelessness is that America is facing a new epidemic, an eviction crisis. Eviction filings soar over 50% above pre-pandemic levels in some cities as rents increase. In a typical year, landlords file over 3.5 million eviction cases according to Princeton’s Eviction Lab. Faced with eviction, pet owners are often faced with the heart-wrenching decision to give up their pet for shelter, or living on the streets.
For all humans including those experiencing homelessness, taking care of a pet can instill a sense of purpose, which is crucial to well-being. Pets are effective in treating and managing depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and dementia. Pets help improve physical and psychological health. Pets have a playful nature that brings enthusiasm and laughter to their owners.
Thank you for caring about these pets that play a vital role in the lives of their owners during some of the most difficult times.
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