Words by Smiley Team
Have you ever wondered how homeless people care for their dogs and cats? In Liverpool and Glasgow, Ruby Shorrock is the answer, a vet who, in her fourth year of veterinary school, decided to set up Trusty Paws, a not-for-profit clinic for homeless people’s pets.
“I did some research in Glasgow,” she said, “and not only did I find that there wasn’t a clinic like that in the city, but also that there weren’t any clinics that took dogs at all and only a couple of temporary housing associations. So that got me thinking.”
After launching the initiative in 2015, she now works with a team of others to run two clinics, one in Glasgow and one in Liverpool. About 30 veterinary students volunteer there, helping them to build experience throughout their studies.
While private veterinary clinics are too expensive for people sleeping rough, Trusty Paws offers its services completely free of charge.
One dog called Bruno, who arrived at the clinic, was diagnosed for a hefty £1000 in vets bills. He had Cushing’s syndrome, a hormonal condition that meant he was producing excessive amounts of steroids. Ruby said, “Sadly he died, and that was obviously moving because he meant a lot to his owner and we fought quite hard for it.”
The service is vital to homeless people whose pets offer a lifeline through their companionship. “I think the human-animal bond is a really powerful thing and you see it with disabled people and dogs, the elderly and dogs or the homeless and dogs,” she said.
Having a dog or cat is of particular comfort to homeless people living with mental illnesses. “If they’ve got a dog then they’ve already got an established relationship and it means a lot to them.” Ruby elaborated: “A dog isn’t going to lie to them, cheat on them or argue with them. They are just there as a source of constant companionship.”
A dog can also offer security while living outdoors. “If they are sleeping on the street a dog makes them feel a lot safer and obviously the warmth from them being there,” explained Ruby.
Many homeless people with pets often reject an offer of accommodation if their dogs or cats are not accepted. Ruby said, “A lot of them will refuse to go into a flat if they won’t let them have their dog. If they can’t stay with the dog then they won’t accept housing. So that’s how much these dogs mean to them.” She adds: “Actually London’s got a lot more hostels that take dogs.”
The clinics are entirely supported by private sponsors, members of the public, a veterinary supply team and a food company. Their outreach teams attend charitable events and visit soup kitchens to raise awareness of their service among the homeless. Homeless charities spread the word to homeless people, passing their details to rough sleepers or those in temporary accommodation who own pets.
To support the clinics donate to Trusty Paws by following the steps explained on their Facebook page.
