Nearly 1/3 of the US homeless population lives in California. This veterinarian cares for the pets

70

Approximately one-third of the homeless population in the United States resides in California. Dr. Kwane Stewart, a veterinarian, dedicates himself to caring for the pets of these individuals.

As an elevated train rumbles above, Dr. Stewart enters through a chain link gate and approaches a man standing near a parked RV. He inquires if there are any street pets in need. Michael Evans promptly brings out his energetic 11-month-old pit bull named Bear, who has been living beneath the bustling commuter trains in the San Francisco Bay Area.

With affectionate instructions from Evans, Dr. Stewart examines Bear and discovers a moderate ear infection that could have worsened rapidly, potentially necessitating sedation. Instead, on the spot, Dr. Stewart administers a triple treatment of antibiotics, anti-fungal medication, and steroids, initiating the healing process.

Overwhelmed with emotion, Evans describes Bear as his son and expresses gratitude for the assistance provided. Bear, who shares the small RV in Oakland with Evans, is truly a blessing to him.

Referred to as “The Street Vet,” Dr. Stewart has been supporting California’s homeless population and their pets for almost a decade. It all began when he spontaneously aided a man with a dog infested with fleas outside a convenience store. Since then, Dr. Stewart regularly walks through the heart of Los Angeles’ notorious Skid Row, gaining insight into the state’s homelessness crisis and witnessing the profound bond between these individuals and their pets.

After treating Bear, Dr. Stewart provides Evans, who hails from Louisiana, with a list of the medications administered, along with contact information for any further treatment needs. Dr. Stewart always assures that he will cover all expenses.

Reflecting on his next stop in West Oakland, Dr. Stewart remarks on the significance of his encounter, stating it was a good catch. According to federal data, California is home to nearly one-third of the nation’s homeless population. A significant proportion of these individuals, approximately two-thirds, live without shelter, often residing in encampments in major cities and along roadways. Although the advocacy group Pets of the Homeless estimates that up to 10% of homeless individuals have pets, Dr. Stewart believes the number is even higher.

Unfortunately, many homeless shelters do not accommodate pets, forcing individuals to make heart-wrenching decisions. Dr. Stewart considers it his mission to assist as many of them as possible.

At 52 years old, Dr. Stewart, a former college hurdler from New Mexico now residing in San Diego, has always been an animal lover. Growing up in Texas and New Mexico, he would attempt to save strays or at least provide them with food and care. He established Project Street Vet, a nonprofit organization committed to helping homeless pets. Initially funding the group from his own paycheck, he later gained sponsors and donors.

While there is undoubtedly heartbreak in Dr. Stewart’s work, such as the emergency surgery he performed on a pregnant chihuahua that sadly resulted in the loss of the two puppies, the majority of pet owners are incredibly grateful for his kindness. Dr. Stewart estimates that only about 1 in 25 individuals decline his assistance.

Calling out “Hello?” near tents, makeshift structures, or campers, Dr. Stewart can often identify the presence of a pet through the sight of a dog bowl or an animal toy. He purposefully wears his navy scrub top with his name, ensuring that he is not mistaken for animal control or other authorities, which could potentially make people feel threatened.

Dr. Stewart approaches Misty Fancher to check if her pit bull, Addie, who she purchased for $200 at a nearby gas station, requires any vaccinations. He offers treats to help establish a friendly rapport with the dog. Sometimes, he simply pulls over and

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about homeless pets

More about homeless pets

• Project Street Vet: Official website of Project Street Vet, the nonprofit organization founded by Dr. Kwane Stewart to provide veterinary care to homeless pets.
• Pets of the Homeless: Advocacy group dedicated to helping homeless individuals and their pets, offering resources and support.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Official website of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, providing data and information on homelessness in the United States.
• California Homeless Youth Project: Resource center focusing on youth homelessness in California, which provides insights into the state’s homelessness crisis.
• American Veterinary Medical Association: Official website of the American Veterinary Medical Association, offering information on veterinary care, animal welfare, and advocacy efforts.