When we think of homelessness or housing insecurity, we often picture a person searching for a safe place to sleep. But this complex issue affects more than just people—it deeply impacts their animal companions, too. Pets are often the overlooked victims of housing instability, caught in the painful space between the need for shelter and the unbreakable bond they share with their owners. As a Niagara humane society, the Humane Society of Greater Niagara recognizes how vital it is to keep families—both human and animal—together. In this blog, we’ll explore the unique challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness who have pets, and highlight how animal welfare organizations and community programs can help ensure that no one is forced to choose between a roof over their head and the companion they love.
Studies estimate that approximately 1 in 10 people experiencing homelessness have pets. These animals are more than just companions–they’re lifelines. They provide emotional support, protection, and a vital sense of stability amid daily uncertainty. Pets help reduce feelings of loneliness and anxiety, offering comfort when the world feels overwhelming. Caring for an animal establishes daily routines that give purpose and structure, helping owners maintain a sense of normalcy amidst chaos. Research from the University of Guelph’s Community Veterinary Outreach program reveals that pets owned by people experiencing homelessness often receive care and attention comparable to pets in stable homes. This finding challenges misconceptions that homeless dogs, cats, and small animals are neglected and highlights the deep responsibility owners feel toward their animals despite difficult circumstances.
There are many reasons why people experiencing homelessness choose to have pets. Pets provide unconditional love, a sense of responsibility, and often a reason to keep going. In some cases, that relationship can even motivate people to make positive changes in their lives, like reducing substance use. And it’s not just emotional—there are real health benefits to having a pet. Research shows that animals can play a big role in improving mental health and overall well-being. Here are just a few of the ways they help:
As meaningful as the bond between people and their pets can be, it can also make it harder to access services or find stable housing.
Many emergency shelters and transitional housing programs do not allow animals on their grounds. This forces individuals to choose between their pets and a roof over their head. Given the magnitude of the human-animal bond, it comes as little surprise that many say they “would never go” to a shelter if they couldn’t bring their pet. The National Alliance to End Homelessness conducted a survey to assess why individuals experiencing homelessness avoid shelters, and 22% of respondents indicated they avoided shelters because their pet was not allowed to join them. The shelters that do allow pets often have limited space or require extensive documentation such as vaccination records, which may not be readily available to people living on the streets.
Affordable housing units, particularly in urban areas, often have a strict “no pets” policy or limitations on the type and size of animals allowed. These restrictions are typically put in place due to concerns about liability, noise, or property damage–but they can create a major barrier for dog owners and other pet guardians trying to secure stable, long-term housing. Pet-friendly units are often significantly more expensive or in short supply, making them inaccessible for individuals with low or no income. And while emotional support animals are legally recognized in many jurisdictions, the paperwork and medical documentation required can be difficult–if not impossible–for someone without stable housing, access to healthcare, or internet to obtain. As a result, many people are forced to choose between keeping their pets and accessing shelter. In too many cases, this leads to people sleeping outdoors or in unsafe conditions simply because they refuse to abandon the animal they love.
Access to veterinary services is another critical challenge. Pets need vaccinations, spay/neuter procedures, treatment for illnesses, and basic preventive care. However, the cost of veterinary care can be prohibitive for individuals without stable income or insurance. Even when low-cost clinics exist, getting to them can be difficult due to a lack of transportation or mobility issues. There’s also the emotional toll–watching a beloved pet suffer without being able to afford help can be heartbreaking and deeply distressing. For many, the fear of judgement or being turned away by service providers adds another layer of hesitation to seeking support. Without proper care, a pet’s health can decline, which may create further barriers to accessing shelter or housing. Many programs require proof of vaccinations or overall pet health, meaning even minor health concerns can disqualify someone from an otherwise viable housing option.
Given the vital role pets play in their owners’ lives, it’s essential that responses to homelessness recognize the human-animal bond and support individuals in meeting their basic needs–such as housing, food, and healthcare–without forcing them to choose between shelter and their pet. The Humane Society of Greater Niagara plays a crucial role in addressing the unique challenges faced by homeless cat and dog owners in the region. Through compassionate care and community outreach, we work to keep pets and their families together, no matter their circumstances.
As Niagara’s only full-service humane society animal clinic, we’re dedicated to making veterinary care accessible and affordable for all pet owners. Our mission is to welcome those without a current vet and help them build a lasting relationship with our compassionate team. We offer:
We understand that cost is a major barrier to veterinary care. That’s why, as the only humane society run animal clinic in the province, we focus on affordability and community outreach. This support is especially important for individuals who might otherwise feel forced to surrender their pets due to preventable or treatable health issues.
As an animal shelter located in Niagara, we don’t stop at direct care—we’re active in education and advocacy too. Our initiatives include:
Our goal is to work collaboratively to make Niagara a place where no family—human or animal—is left behind.
As a Niagara Humane Society, we believe that supporting pet owners—regardless of their housing status—means addressing their immediate, day-to-day needs. That’s why we provide pet food, leashes, collars, bowls, toys, litter, and other essential supplies to individuals and families facing financial hardship or homelessness. We work directly with local shelters, outreach teams, and social service organizations across the region to ensure these supplies reach the people and pets who need them most. This support can mean the difference between keeping a beloved pet or having to surrender them during a difficult time. By helping owners feed and care for their animals, we’re not only keeping pets out of shelters—we’re preserving the human-animal bond that provides so much comfort, emotional strength, and stability for people in crisis. Because at HSGN, we know that when pets have what they need, people feel stronger too. As an animal shelter located in Niagara, we also accept donations of gently used and new pet items. These supplies go directly to pet owners who are doing their best with limited resources. Whether it’s a warm blanket for a homeless dog sleeping on the street with their owner, or a bag of food that helps a struggling family stretch their grocery budget, these contributions make a real and immediate impact.
Across Canada and the U.S., a growing number of communities are recognizing the importance of allowing pets in shelters and housing. Programs that accommodate animals often lead to better outcomes for people. These include:
When pets are separated from their owners or abandoned, the emotional toll is immense. This trauma can deepen cycles of homelessness and despair. Conversely, supporting homeless individuals with pets can lead to:
Helping people care for their pets isn’t just about animal welfare—it’s about supporting the bond that gives people hope, purpose, and connection. Everyone deserves the chance to love and care for another living being.
This issue requires compassion, action, and sustained support. Here’s how you can make a difference:
Pets are not just animals—they’re family members who offer love, loyalty, and hope. Housing insecurity and homelessness should never mean losing that bond. As a Niagara Humane Society, HSGN is proud to be part of a community that values every member, human and animal alike. If you or someone you know is struggling to keep a pet during housing transitions, reach out to us. Together, we can create a future where no one has to choose between a safe place to live and the companions they cherish.