World Homeless Day & World Mental Health – the power of dog ownership for people experiencing homelessness

10th October is World Homeless Day and World Mental Health Day. These two days are marked internationally on an annual basis and are dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness and the importance of mental health support. This year, we want to shine a spotlight on a unique intersection of the mental health benefits dogs bring to people experiencing homelessness – something very close to the heart of everyone in the Together Through Homelessness team here at Dogs Trust.

Homelessness and mental health issues are deeply intertwined, with a disproportionate number of people experiencing both. A recent study by Homeless Link revealed that 80% of people experiencing homelessness in England report mental health problems, significantly higher than the general population. For comparison, 23% of the general population have a mental health diagnosis. Trauma, a common experience for many people experiencing homelessness, can significantly impact mental health.

Dogs have proven to be invaluable companions for those who have experienced trauma. They can provide a sense of safety and security, helping people feel less alone and isolated. Their unconditional love and companionship can also contribute to emotional healing and recovery. Dogs are often our clients’ main or only motivating factor in their journey to a stable, permanent place to call home.

‘’My dog is my life saver, she really is. I would not have coped with homelessness and all the stress without her. We’re very connected. She knows when I am stressed, and she would rest her head on me. I also have depression, and she helps me so much to cope with that – she is the reason I get out every day.’’

Susan*, a Together Through Homelessness client (not her real name)

Photo credit: Richard Murgatroyd

While the bond between people experiencing homelessness and their dogs is incredibly special, it also presents unique challenges. Finding suitable dog-friendly temporary accommodation, accessing affordable veterinary care, and navigating public spaces with a pet can be difficult.

This is why Together Through Homelessness exists. Our main mission is to keep people and their pets together when they face the traumatising impacts of homelessness.

So far this year on Together Through Homelessness we have funded just over 1,000 vet treatments for 530 dogs whose owners are experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the UK.

‘’After Zeus was treated, his ears are back up and he is full of joy and bounce again. As soon as we got back to the temporary accommodation, he was in our bed fast asleep, I could tell he was relaxed. We are so happy with the service and were overjoyed with the help we have received from Together Through Homelessness.’’

Paul and Zeus, supported by Together Through Homelessness

We have also supported over 70 homelessness services across England, Wales and Scotland to become dog-friendly through our free endorsement scheme. This has meant that many dog owners who found themselves homeless have not had to choose between somewhere safe to sleep or giving up their beloved dog.

“Allowing dogs into the service, for both staff and service users, has been extremely successful. It has helped to foster a friendly caring atmosphere and has often helped to disarm people’s preconceptions of a homelessness service. It has supported the mental health and wellbeing of all, it is a conversation starter and a way to build rapport with people.”

Louise Hart, Service Manager at Framework, Lincolnshire – a homelessness service endorsed on Together Through Homelessness

If you would like to know more about the work of Together Through Homelessness, feel free to contact us.