Found House Interfaith Housing NetworkFunded 2022-2024
Established in 2014, the Pet Support Program is a pet shelter within Found House Interfaith Housing Network's (IHN’s) Emergency Shelter. The program keeps families together by providing temporary shelter for dogs and other pets whose owners are facing housing insecurity in the Greater Cincinnati area. This program allows pet owners to access services without surrendering their animals. In addition to sheltering animals, the Pet Support Program offers resources to low-income pet owners, such as pet food and supplies, medical referrals, and funding for pet rental deposits. The program also provides case management support that continues after pets’ and families’ housing crises are resolved, helping to ensure continued stabilization and prevent future housing loss.
In 2023, Found House IHN provided services to 310 pets from 200 households. Of the pets provided with temporary shelter, 84% reunited with their owners once they found affordable pet-friendly housing, and 100% were connected to loving homes. If not for the availability of this program, all of the pets served by the FHIHN Pet Support Program would have been surrendered to traditional animal shelters.
Support from Grey Muzzle will allow the Pet Support Program at Found House IHN to improve the health of senior dogs whose guardians are experiencing homelessness or other related crises. Low-income clients on the verge of homelessness frequently cannot afford needed veterinary care, such as vaccines and dental cleanings. Grey Muzzle funding will help cover these expenses for senior dogs like Sophie. During her stay at Found House IHN, Sophie received a medical check-up and vaccines. She and her owner reunited after finding stable, affordable, pet-friendly housing. Sophie’s owner shared their gratitude for the Pet Support Program: "We are happy she is reunited with us. It’s been a joy to have her back home.”
