For many people experiencing homelessness, a pet is far more than an animal. Pets provide comfort, emotional support, safety, purpose, and unconditional love during some of life’s most difficult moments. Yet many individuals face a heartbreaking dilemma: accept shelter and supportive services or remain outside with the animal they consider family. At Hospitality House, we believe no one should have to make that choice.
When Hospitality House surveyed local unhoused pet owners in 2019, 38 of 50 respondents said they would immediately seek shelter and enroll in programming if they could bring their pets. That feedback led directly to the creation of the Pet Program. Today, the program provides behavioral assessments, veterinary care, vaccinations, flea treatments, beds, crates, and access to spay/neuter services through community partnerships.
Research consistently shows that pets play an important role in health and well-being. According to research cited by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute, most pet owners consider their pets family and report benefits such as reduced loneliness, increased happiness, and lower stress. For people experiencing homelessness, those benefits can be even more significant. Pets often provide companionship, stability, purpose, and one of the few trusted relationships in their lives
Because many shelters and housing programs do not accommodate pets, some individuals delay seeking help. Hospitality House recognized this barrier and created a program that keeps people and pets together while addressing both human and animal needs. The Pet Program has become an effective engagement and outreach tool, helping staff connect people with housing, health care, and supportive services through the trust built by caring for their pets.
The program is especially important for survivors of domestic violence. Concern for a pet’s safety can be a significant factor in deciding whether to leave an abusive situation. By providing a safe environment for both people and their pets, Hospitality House removes a major barrier to seeking safety and support.
The Pet Program also benefits the broader Nevada County community. Vaccinations, flea treatment, veterinary care, and spay/neuter services help prevent disease, reduce unwanted litters, and improve animal health. These efforts lessen strain on local animal welfare resources and contribute to healthier outcomes for animals throughout the community
Hospitality House is able to provide these services through strong community partnerships. Animal Save supports the program with spay and neuter services, Wayward Journey helps provide affordable vaccines, and Pine Creek Veterinary Clinic offers veterinary care for pets at the shelter. Beverly Mercier-Ward, a trusted animal behaviorist, helps ensure the safety and well-being of all who participate in the program. Together, these partners demonstrate how local organizations can address the interconnected needs of people and animals.
Since its launch in 2020, the Pet Program has helped more than 350 pets. Although federal and state funding that supported pet-inclusive homeless services ended this year, Hospitality House remains committed to continuing the program because its impact is clear. When pets are safe and cared for, their owners can focus more fully on health, employment, recovery, and housing goals.
Help us keep families together — paws included. A gift to the Hospitality House Pet Program means safety, care, and a second chance for both ends of the leash. Donate HERE.
Shown below are a few of the furry guests at Hospitality House.