Hostels are an essential part of the response to homelessness providing a temporary place to stay and supporting with permanent solutions for housing and reintegration into society. Research has shown that fewer than 10% of hostels are pet friendly leaving a homeless pet owner at a disadvantage. Fewer than 7% of homeless pet owners would give up their dog in exchange for housing.
The bond between a homeless person and their pet is well documented and provides many positive mental and physical benefits to the owner. Despite this most people who are homeless are asked to give up their pet to access accommodation.
Street Paws charity believe that owning a dog should not be a barrier to accessing support and a safe place to sleep which is why we set up the Dog Champion Scheme.
The Street Paws Dog Champions Scheme support hostels to become pet friendly and provides:
- Accredited Staff training and support
- Canine First Aid training and First Aid Kit
- Pet policies
- Owner agreements
- Welcome pack of pet essentials for residents
- Street Paws patient registration and full veterinary care
- Teacher: Penny Delaney