In providing low-barrier supportive housing, we have many residents who have animal companions. We know how important cats, dogs and the occasional gerbil are to people’s well-being.
This is why PHS in Victoria is so delighted by a new initiative with the city’s branch of the Humane Society to provide free neutering and spaying, with additional complementary veterinary support, for residents’ cats and dogs.
“Victoria Humane Society contacted us looking to improve access to pet care,” said Ramsay Moffatt, Senior Manager of Housing and Programs in Victoria. “They are offering access to spaying and neutering for our residents’ pets, and will address other issues they find while doing this – check out the animal’s health and give treatment like flea spray or deworming.
“It’s important for us to house people with pets, especially knowing how many residences and services in Victoria don’t make that accommodation. But of course, with pets comes challenges.”
This new initiative gives us a practical solution to the problem of unwanted litters, which tend to be given away to other residents. In many cases those residents are not able to care for their new animal and the SPCA gets involved to safeguard the animal’s welfare, which is a very distressing situation we want to work to avoid.
Even when residents are themselves able to care for their pet, the cost of vet care is out of reach. And vet support is essential.
Not only does spaying and neutering prevent unwanted litters, it can also reduce an animal’s aggression, making them a better fit for the community.
As Ramsay points out, for a person who has come to PHS directly from experiencing homelessness, theirs is probably a de facto ‘working dog.’ “These dogs watch people’s belongings while they sleep, are constant companions and security. They are often highly protective.”
Living indoors requires a transition for these kinds of pets and neutering helps then make the adjustment into a their new housing and community. Many thanks to the Victoria Humane Society for helping our residents care for their animals.
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