Published February 2020
Evidence shows that animal companionship is fortifying and contributes to the emotional well-being of people experiencing homelessness, including encouraging owners to obtain sobriety, leave abusive relationships, and avoid incarceration.
As part of the National Alliance to End Homelessness’ efforts to advance low-barrier emergency shelter models, it has partnered with PetSmart Charities in developing the Keeping People and Pets Together resource. The Alliance also consulted various stakeholders – including Continuum of Care (CoC) leadership, homeless service providers, animal welfare organizations, and people experiencing homelessness who have pets – to help determine policies and practices that can improve services for people experiencing homelessness with pets. This document can additionally serve as the foundation for a larger system-wide action plan or new initiatives that actively respond to the needs of people experiencing homelessness with pets.