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Keeping pets and people together

The deep connection between people and pets is universal, but access to animal care resources is not. In truly humane communities, everyone can obtain what they need for the animals in their lives. 

1 in 3
dogs and cats

around the world live on the streets or in shelters, rather than in a home 

20+ million
pets

experience poverty with their families in the United States

70+ million
dogs

live on the streets in India

Take a look inside the issue

People have tremendous love for their animal family members, yet millions struggle to access care for their pets. Poverty and systemic inequity create obstacles to pet wellness services—such as health and behavioral care—as well as pet supplies and pet-inclusive housing.

Dog and owner

Shea Michelle/Humane World for Animals

Access to care

Many areas suffer from a lack of access to pet care resources. In rural communities, the closest veterinary clinic may be hours away. In many countries with developing economies, there is a lack of veterinarians trained in the treatment and care of dogs and cats.  A lack of affordable, pet-inclusive housing forces many loving pet owners to give up their companions.

Dog and owner

Shea Michelle/Humane World for Animals

Health and welfare

An estimated 70% of pets in underserved areas within the U.S. have never seen a veterinarian. We are working to provide direct-care veterinary field clinics in remote or rural communities.

Take Action

The lack of access to pet care and resources is an overlooked national crisis. This lack of access means many families don’t have what they want and need for their pets. Take action to help keep pets and their families together.

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Jean Chung/For Humane World for Animals