With the cold wave that has hit France, we all think of those who live on the streets without shelter to protect themselves from this freezing winter. The Homeless (SDF) are often accompanied by one or more dogs, a source of comfort for them but a source of problems when it comes to their emergency accommodation.
It should be noted that today a homeless person is forced to leave their four-legged companion in order to benefit from a warm night, a meal, or even a shower. Indeed, there are very few emergency shelters that accept animals. The homeless person is compelled to abandon their dog to enjoy a minimum of comfort.
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Never without my dog
For most of them, this separation is impossible because the bond that unites them is too strong. They all say it, they prefer to stay outside rather than abandon their dog, even in the middle of winter.
This is exemplified by Farid, who lived for several weeks on the street, unable to find a place to sleep “because of his dog.” His words are clear but also very harsh: “I would rather freeze to death than abandon my dog.”
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The dog represents a lot in the eyes of a homeless person: it is primarily a social bond, a means of defense against the harshness of life on the street, a source of warmth in the night, a responsibility, and above all someone they can always count on!
In France, 353 people have succumbed outdoors to the rigors of winter since January 1, 2009, according to the report by the collective Morts de la rue published on December 29.
What solutions for homeless people with dogs?
We must act quickly to reduce this number and ensure that homeless people accompanied by a dog are not pushed even further aside. Fortunately, local authorities and associations are gradually mobilizing to provide them with assistance:
– It is possible to place the dog at the SPA while waiting to find work and have housing that accepts pets. Additionally, the SPA distributes vouchers for free consultations at the veterinarian.
– Some local authorities have mobile homes that have the advantage of having a kennel.
– In the Paris region, there is a barge called “the Fleuron” that accepts homeless people with their animals.
– The Lianes association (in the Strasbourg region) offers homeless people to sign a contract with them: in exchange for the care of their animal and a contribution to veterinary costs, the homeless person commits to finding a job and housing.
– Many associations such as marauding teams, the Red Cross, the SPA, the Secours Populaire, and the Secours Catholique have mobilized for the distribution of dog food to the homeless at the same time as meals for their owners.
We have fallen in love with one of these associations: “Gamelles Pleines.” Founded by an individual, it helps isolated owners to keep, feed, care for, and love their animals. This association operates thanks to the generosity and solidarity of animal lovers… Don’t hesitate to join them; the needy will be eternally grateful to you.