It is hard to underestimate what an important part of the family pets really are. Even when times get hard, the love and loyalty of a pet can make a world of difference to someone who is struggling.

That’s why Church Homeless Charity do all we can to keep those families together; healthy and happy.

Not all homeless services are able to support pets, and unfortunately that can be a reason that rough sleepers refuse accommodation. Unwilling to leave their beloved pets behind, they’d rather sleep on the street than leave their furry friends to an uncertain fate.

That’s why Church Homeless Charity are proud to work with several services that allow pets. In the past, we have even paid for essentials like pet food, collars and leashes, and dog beds so both the homeless individual and their pet could settle into their new life.

Sometimes, a pet can be the reason for someone to refuse vital rehabilitation treatment, so CHC pay for kennel services while their owner is away.

How we can provide help

Last month we paid for Mariah – a dog owned by a homeless resident called Martin* at a service in London – to be spayed. Martin had become homeless after his ill health caused him to lose his job, and soon he was unable to pay his rent.

Unwilling to part with his beloved dog, he applied for accommodation at a pet-friendly service – but they could only be accepted if his dog was spayed. Having spent all his savings trying to get by in the previous months, he had nothing left to pay for the often costly procedure and faced a difficult choice.

Service staff believe it was absolutely essential to Martin’s mental health that Mariah remain by his side. Thankfully, Church Homeless Charity was able to step in and pay for the procedure, and now Martin can focus on rebuilding his life rather than worrying about Mariah.

“Today is a great joy for us all to see Martin happy and well, and the same can be said about Mariah.”

*some names and images may be changed in order to provide anonymity.