Seven out of ten people consider their pets members of the family. This statistic is not surprising to me. We share our beds, sofas and even vacations with our pets. We buy them toys, costumes, birthday cakes and take them to dog parks and daycare.
Ownership of a pet is costly.
The Lifetime of Care study was based on a survey of 1,200 US pet owners and 100 veterinarians who pegged the first-year cost of a dog at $1,270 to $2,803. For a cat, it is from $961 to $2,487. Costs listed include adoption fees, licensing, microchipping, vaccinations, spay/neuter and pet food, which is $351-$584 per year.
With life expectancy in the teens, for most pets nowadays, it adds up fast year after year.
One out of three in the survey will face an unexpected pet expense that causes financial worry. And for them, a $250 veterinary bill is a financial issue. But for the homeless, they worry about any cost of veterinary care.
Our mission statement:
Feeding Pets of the Homeless® believes in the healing power of companion pets and of the human/animal bond, which is very important in the lives of many homeless. They find solace, protection and companionship through their pets. They care for their pets on limited resources so they themselves have less. Our task, nationwide, is to feed and provide basic emergency veterinary care to their pets and thus relieve the anguish and anxiety of the homeless who cannot provide for their pets.
Taking time to find us to help can be life-saving for these pets. That’s why I am asking you to help spread the word to homeless encampments, social workers, first responders, police and homeless shelters. Let them know who we are, what we do and how to find us.
All it takes is a phone call, a short interview to determine if the person qualifies and if so, we make arrangements at one of our network hospitals.
Have a safe and healthy Valentine’s Day with your pet and loved ones.
With gratitude,
Genevieve Frederick
President and Founder
Feeding Pets of the Homeless®
