A project cares for the pets of homeless people

By bringing veterinary services directly to those who need them, the ElleVet Project is helping to ensure that the pets of homeless people are not overlooked

Spotted: As any pet owner knows, animals can quickly become members of the family. They provide us with companionship, love, and support. And for those who are homeless, pets are especially important, providing a range of health benefits in addition to physical protection. However, these animals are less likely to receive the care that they need to remain healthy.

The ElleVet Project is a US-wide mobile relief effort providing free care to pets in vulnerable communities. Multiple veterinarians travel around the country to treat pets of people who are homeless in order to improve the health and well-being of both the pets and their owners.

Out of a 38-foot RV, known as the ElleVan, the vets offer vaccinations as well as treatment. Vaccinations are crucial as they allow pets and owners to stay in animal-friendly homeless shelters where non-vaccinated animals are banned.

If the pet needs emergency care, the ElleVet Project contacts and pays local veterinary surgeons to perform the surgery and provide the necessary care. Within the first two months of launching, the project treated over 1,200 pets.

Among other pet-friendly innovations we have spotted in recent times include a digital diagnosis and treatment tool for pets that tackles vet shortages and dog leads made from old climbing rope.