Chapter 19 - Homelessness and Animal Companionship

Abstract

People experiencing homelessness with animals are often the subject of criticism and judgment. After all, if one cannot provide for themselves, why should they be allowed to care for another being? However, as research and experience reveal, wealth and even a physical house are not adequate measures for the quality of life of an animal. Moreover, the animal provides constant companionship, support, and sense of purpose for people experiencing homelessness. But the very thing that provides people with hope can also be a barrier in their ability to lift themselves out of homelessness. The “no-pets-allowed” culture within homeless services prevents devoted animal guardians from entering shelter and housing programs. When faced with the ultimatum of choosing their animals or shelter, people may often choose to remain on the streets. Clinicians working with clients experiencing homelessness with animals may find their clinical work delayed as they face additional challenges to eating, protecting themselves from the elements, and having a safe place to sleep. Consequently, a clinician in the service of a person who is homeless should expect to perform some case management tasks, or work very closely with a case manager, until the most elusive of all basic needs—shelter or housing—is secured.