Providing pet-inclusive services

What is the level of pet ownership amongst people experiencing homelessness?

Studies in 2023 estimate that between 10-25% of people experiencing homelessness in the UK have a pet. However, research has revealed a major barrier: the lack of pet-friendly housing – an issue which spans both homelessness services and the broader rental market. As a result, many individuals are forced to choose between shelters and their pets.

What support can pets provide to people experiencing homelessness?

Pets can provide companionship, reduce loneliness and provide unconditional love which can be especially important for people who may feel socially isolated. Caring for an animal can also create a sense of responsibility, routine and purpose. For some people experiencing homelessness, owning a pet may become a reason to seek housing and other support.

What are the benefits of being a pet-inclusive service?

Many individuals experiencing homelessness may refuse help from services that do not allow pets, choosing to remain rough sleeping instead, or not engage in support. Pet-inclusive services and policies remove this barrier, leading to greater engagement in services and improved housing outcomes.

By allowing people to stay with their pets, many individuals will feel reduced feelings of isolation, improved emotional wellbeing, and greater motivation and hope. When pets are allowed into services, pets can receive proper veterinary care, benefiting both the pet and public health concerns related to animal welfare.

How can services become pet-inclusive?

StreetVet

StreetVet is a charity which delivers free essential veterinary care and services to the pets of people experiencing homelessness in the UK.

StreetVet has developed a Hostel Accreditation Scheme to offer training and wrap-around support, enabling services to adopt pet-inclusive polices.

If you would like further information about the scheme or want to take the first steps to becoming a StreetVet accredited site, please email: hostels@streetvet.org.uk

Read StreetVet’s blog post here.

Dogs Trust: Together Through Homelessness Project

The Dogs Trust provides free, in-depth support and advice to homelessness services on becoming a Dogs Trust endorsed service. They also provide free vet care for any dog owner being supported by a homelessness service.

For more information, and how to get in touch about becoming a dog-friendly service, visit their website.

Homelessness and pet-ownership: addressing common misconceptions

StreetVet and The Dogs Trust facilitated a Homeless Link Practice Forum in November 2025. Below is a presentation from The Dogs Trust which addresses common misconceptions of pet-ownership and homelessness, and provides practical solutions to pet-inclusivity.