At Rogue Valley Street Dogs, we believe every pet deserves access to the care they need, regardless of their owner’s circumstances. For individuals living on the streets or facing poverty, pet companionship is often a source of hope, love, and stability. Pets provide emotional support, help reduce loneliness, and bring joy to lives often marked by hardship. Our mission is to ensure these loyal animals receive the medical support they need to survive and thrive alongside their owners. From spay and neuter services to vaccinations and essential supplies, we’re here to make a difference. Providing support to people with pets, including helping owners find treatment and housing without being separated from their companions, is crucial to helping them get back on their feet and making successful strides in their lives. Restrictive policies of shelters and treatment centers make it challenging, but keeping people together with their pets is critical for overall wellness and self-motivation.
According to the ASPCA: “In 2019, it was estimated that 12% of unsheltered homeless adults owned pets. According to a study conducted two years prior, 48% of unhoused pet-owning individuals reported being turned away from a shelter because of pet policies. Similarly, the National Alliance to End Homelessness conducted a survey to assess why individuals experiencing homelessness avoid shelters, and 22% of respondents indicated they avoided shelter because their pet was not allowed to be with them.”
In Their Own Words
Below is a heartfelt story from one of the individuals we’ve had the honor to support—a story that shows just how impactful these pets are and how meaningful our work is in keeping them healthy, happy, and with the people who love them most.
“Hello, my name is Curtis, and I’d like to share a pivotal chapter of my life when I was struggling with depression and substance use. Up until April 2015, I had been homeless for over a year, wandering through life with my loyal dog, Deke.
Deke entered my life in 2005 as a rescue, and over the next decade, we became inseparable companions. We traveled together through various cities and states, and no matter where we ended up, Deke was by my side. When I became homeless in 2013, you could often spot us roaming the streets of Medford. Deke was so well-behaved that he never needed a leash; he followed me faithfully wherever I went.
After my mother passed away, I hit rock bottom. I knew I couldn’t continue living homeless and addicted. Desperation led me to seek help at the ARC, where I hoped to get into inpatient treatment. However, there was one condition—I wouldn’t go without Deke. At that time, the ARC had a no-pets policy. But after some consideration, they made an exception, allowing Deke to become the ARC’s mascot.
Despite their approval, there were hurdles to overcome before Deke could join me. He needed proof of vaccinations, treatment for fleas, and a good cleaning. That’s when I was introduced to Street Dogs. An advocate from the ARC connected me with Nancy and the Street Dogs team, who quickly arranged for Deke to get his vaccinations. They didn’t stop there; they provided us with a care package that included dog food, flea and heartworm prevention, shampoo, and a plush dog pillow.
Without the support of Street Dogs, I don’t know where I would be today. Being able to bring Deke into treatment was crucial for me. It provided the stability I needed to focus on my recovery. After graduating from inpatient treatment, Deke and I moved into a sober living home, and I started school. For two years, Deke and I enjoyed a stable life until he passed away at the age of 17. I’m forever grateful that his last years were spent in comfort rather than on the streets.
In 2023, I graduated with a master’s degree in social work. Today, I work as a community therapist at Options for Southern Oregon, helping our most disadvantaged populations. Just as I received help when I needed it most, I now get to pay it forward. Whenever I encounter individuals who face barriers to treatment due to their pets, I call on Street Dogs. Whether it’s fostering, medication, neutering, or any other need, Street Dogs steps in and makes a difference.
Street Dogs is an incredible organization that supports not just the community but also their trusted companions. They were there for me and Deke when we needed them most, and they continue to be a beacon of hope for many others. Our community is truly fortunate to have them.
Thank you, Street Dogs, for all you do.
Sincerely, Curtis”
Help us keep people together with their pets.
Your support can make a world of difference for pets and their owners who are facing challenging circumstances. By donating or volunteering with Rogue Valley Street Dogs, you help provide essential medical care, food, and resources to pets who need it most. Every contribution allows us to continue our mission of compassion, ensuring that pets living in poverty receive the care they deserve to stay healthy and thrive alongside their owners. If you’d like to join us in this mission, please consider a donation or reach out about our volunteer opportunities.
Do you need help for your pet or know someone who does?
If you or someone you know needs assistance caring for a pet, we’re here to help. Visit our services page to learn more about the range of support we offer to keep pets safe, happy, and healthy in the community. We do whatever we can, even helping identify resources to help keep people together with their pets so both pets and owners can thrive. Together, we can bring hope and security to pets and those who love them.
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