Welcoming dogs to our homelessness services
In the run up to World Homeless Day later this week, we’re sharing more about the people, stories, and communities involved with Caritas.
Something we know is important to some of the people we work alongside at our homelessness services is that their canine friends are able to accompany them when they come for support.
We welcome dogs and work with charity Street Paws to ensure they are vaccinated and chipped and get proper health care too.
Here, we meet Gary, who tells us more about his experiences visiting Cornerstone with his dog, Darcy.
How long have you had Darcy?
I’ve had Darcy for just over two years.
What does your dog mean to you?
Darcy is my best friend, she helps me keep healthy, going for walks to keep fit and keeping me busy. When I was homeless she made me feel safe. Not having Darcy would impact my mental health.
Why do you think that some people experiencing homelessness have dogs? Do you think that it affects people’s opportunities to get off the street?
Having a dog is like having a best friend that keeps you safe, but it makes it more challenging to obtain accommodation in places like bed and breakfasts, hotels and hostels because dogs aren’t welcome.
Most social housing properties don’t accept dogs either, I think it’s because they just focus on the negative side of having a dog.
Have you tried to access other services with your dog? Have you ever been refused by any service due to having a dog?
When you are homeless it’s a struggle getting into shops with a dog. I don’t feel comfortable tying Darcy outside while I go into the shop because I fear she might get stolen or abused which means I have to go thirsty or hungry, not being able to go in the shops with Darcy. Everything becomes harder.
At Cornerstone and Morning Star, we welcome dogs – do you think this is important? How do you feel coming to Cornerstone?
We always feel welcomed by staff and volunteers when I come to Cornerstone. This is a friendly environment. I’ve made friends with the staff, volunteers and people that use the service, I feel safe coming here and so does Darcy.
I’ve got a flat now, and I’m doing well. I’m glad that Cornerstone and Morning Star are helping more people with dogs to get off the streets.
Thank you to Gary and Darcy.
To support our work alongside people experiencing homelessness, click here.