For individuals experiencing homelessness, pets are often more than just animals; they are companions, family, and a source of unconditional love and support. Recognizing this profound bond, the University of New Mexico’s Street Medicine program has expanded its outreach to include veterinary care, partnering with New Mexico Veterans for Pets (Vets for Pets) to provide comprehensive services for both people and their beloved animals on the streets of Albuquerque.
The UNM Street Medicine team has been operating pop-up clinics weekly for the past three months, delivering essential medical screenings, treatment, and resources to Albuquerque’s homeless population. These clinics, supported by Albuquerque Community Services (ACS) and other local organizations, offer a lifeline by providing access to UNM Health services, medications, food, water, and clean clothing directly within the community. Understanding that the well-being of people experiencing homelessness is often intertwined with the health of their pets, the partnership with Vets for Pets marks a significant step forward in holistic care.
Vets for Pets, a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting military veterans and supporting animal welfare, is seamlessly integrating its services into the Street Medicine program. Dr. Finnie Coleman, a UNM faculty member and the driving force behind Vets for Pets, emphasizes the mutual learning and inspiration derived from this collaboration. “We are learning from what we’re seeing UNM Street Medicine Team do out here in the field—how do you interact with people, how do you make sure you’ve gathered the data you need—it’s a great model for us,” Coleman stated. He further highlighted the dedication of the Street Medicine team, noting, “These pop-up events have been nothing short of inspiring. The doctors who come out, all of the support staff that come out, the work that they do in this community.”
The core mission of Vets for Pets is twofold: to support veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) by offering job opportunities within the pet care industry and to aid local animal shelters by providing care for animals at risk of euthanasia. This partnership with UNM Street Medicine and ACS allows Vets for Pets to extend its reach to animals living on the streets, providing crucial resources like food and water. Furthermore, it creates opportunities to connect with veterans in need, offering referrals to VA hospitals and other support organizations.
The services provided through this innovative partnership are comprehensive, addressing a wide range of needs for street pets. Vets for Pets offers veterinary examinations, essential medical supplies, nutritious food, fresh water, bowls, collars, leashes, and valuable training advice for pet owners. Their team is also equipped to triage animals that have sustained injuries, been involved in fights, or are exhibiting unusual behaviors, ensuring immediate attention for urgent cases.
Ramses, an individual who initially visited the Street Medicine pop-up clinic seeking housing information, experienced firsthand the immediate benefits of this integrated approach. He left the clinic with much-needed supplies for his puppy, Troubles. “They said they have water and bowls for dogs,” Ramses recounted, “I need a bowl for him, actually—a leash too, so that’s good.” This simple act of providing pet supplies can significantly improve the daily lives of both the pet and owner, reducing stress and enhancing their bond.
Dr. Coleman poignantly describes the therapeutic power of the human-animal bond, particularly for veterans. “It is just a great way to have our veterans, who a lot of people might think of as being hard or cold, to allow them to express that human side of themselves, to really nurture and guard something,” he explained, drawing from his personal experience as a disabled veteran. “I’m proud to be a veteran for our country, and this has changed me. It’s made me into a very different person than I was before getting involved in this. So, being able to come out here in the community, give back to our community and to also help vets and help animals—I mean, wow.”
Looking to the future, Vets for Pets aims to expand its contributions by providing even more food and crucial vaccinations to pets in need within the community. This ongoing partnership between UNM Street Medicine and Vets for Pets exemplifies a compassionate and practical approach to community health, recognizing the vital role pets play in the lives of individuals experiencing homelessness.
Support Street Medicine and Vets for Pets
Individuals interested in supporting this vital initiative can contribute in several ways. To donate supplies directly to the UNM Street Medicine team, please visit their online wishlist HERE. For those wishing to support Vets for Pets through donations or to inquire about services, please click here. Your support can help ensure that both people and their beloved pets receive the care and resources they need.
