Last week, our DDR clinic, located in Maywood, opened its doors for a special day dedicated to pets living with people who are unhoused. Whether they are surviving in tents, cars, RVs, motels, shelters, or moving from couch to couch, we know that pets remain a constant source of love, stability, and purpose in their lives.
On this day, our clinic was more than a veterinary center—it became a safe and welcoming space. Our social worker, Jackie, was on site, greeting everyone with warmth, listening deeply, and offering resources to anyone who needed them. For some, that meant connecting to housing services or mental health support. For others, it was simply having someone sit across from them and listen.
Our Medical Director, Dr. Hoffman, dedicated her entire day to the pets who came through our doors. From exams and vaccinations to diagnosis, bloodwork, and treatment plans, each pet was given the highest standard of care. Several pets will need surgery or follow-up visits, and we are committed to walking alongside their families through every step.
All of the clients we served that day were referred to us by Jackie, our social worker, or connected through our ongoing street outreach efforts—work that never stops. In fact, one of the major reasons we decided to open our own clinic was to focus on helping people with pets who are living on the street. By doing so, we are able to greatly increase the number of pets spayed and neutered, while eliminating many of the barriers families face: long wait times, lack of transportation, and the costs of surgery. Thanks to donor support, we can even offer a small cash bonus to encourage participation in our free spay and neuter program.
Here are three of the stories that remind us why this work matters so deeply:
Canela
Canela, a beautiful Doberman, was picked up by a volunteer so she could be seen by our team. Because Dobermans are prone to a genetic bleeding disorder, Dr. Hoffman performed a special blood test, called the Willenbrand test, before scheduling her spay surgery. Soon, Canela will be spayed, preventing future unwanted litters of puppies and improving her long-term health.
Fiona
Fiona, a gentle pit bull, came in for her pre-operation exam for a condition called cherry eye. Her person could never have afforded the surgery on their own, but because of your support, Fiona’s surgery is scheduled for early October. This simple procedure will make a world of difference in her comfort and quality of life.
Diana’s Kitty
One of our longtime clients, Diana, arrived with a cat she was worried about. Diana is currently living in her car while waiting for housing, but that hasn’t stopped her from being a lifeline for others. She has become the go-to person on the street for those with pets in need. Over the years, thanks to Diana’s compassion and advocacy, we have treated countless dogs and cats who otherwise might have gone without care.
These stories are only possible because of the generosity of our community. Together, we are proving that access to high-quality veterinary care should never depend on housing status, income, or circumstance.
If you believe in this mission, please consider supporting our work. Your donations make it possible for pets like Canela, Fiona, and Diana’s kitty to get the care they need—and for their people to feel seen, respected, and supported.
Because of you, our clinic doors stay open. Your generosity ensures that families who are struggling the most can still keep their pets healthy, safe, and by their side. If you’d like to help us continue this work, please consider making a gift today.
Every contribution—no matter the size—directly funds lifesaving care, spay and neuter surgeries, and the outreach that connects us to people who otherwise would have nowhere to turn. Together, we can make access to veterinary care a reality for all. Thank you for your support!
