Since the start of the pandemic, Feeding Pets of the Homeless, as well as other nonprofits, have experienced many unforeseen changes. We have done our very best to adapt.
We have seen a significant increase in people seeking veterinary care for their pets, pet food or a homeless shelter that will allow pets. Adding to the problem is veterinary hospitals are finding their schedules booked out for weeks to months at a time. Most emergency hospitals have an average wait time of 4-8 hours, and some are having to turn patients away or they are not taking new clients. They are experiencing a shortage of staff like many other businesses across the country.
Our case managers are averaging over 20 completed cases a week with another 110 cases that are pending due to the issues I noted. Like our veterinary colleagues, giving all our compassion day in and day out only to see some cases not have a positive end, or having to turn away people that cannot verify they are homeless can be draining. Enduring those frustrations, for the callers as well as my staff, is stressful.
Cold weather has increased callers asking about a homeless or a warming shelter that will allow their pets. Add to that, natural disasters and evictions are on the horizon which will cause families to become homeless. We are concerned we will not be able to keep up and many pets of the homeless will go without the necessary treatment for an illness or an injury.
At Feeding Pets of the Homeless, we have added an answering service to take the large number of calls we receive 24/7. We recognize that your calls are important, and we will return your call as soon as possible.
I appreciate your continued support whether it be as a donor, as a volunteer, as a Donation Site, as a Pet Food Provider or as one of our wonderful hospitals and staff, I am grateful.
A Happy Thanksgiving to you and to the furry babies that make our lives complete!
With gratitude,
Genevieve Frederick
President and Founder
Feeding Pets of the Homeless®
