StreetVet was born in 2016, inspired by the incredible bond between a homeless man, Gary, and his dog Lola. Victims of the UK homelessness epidemic often have scant support, except for, in a growing number of cases, the companionship of their pets. Some have had their pets since before losing their homes. Others had the responsibility of pet ownership thrust upon them. Irrespective, the bond between many homeless people and their dogs is profound, such that their pets’ wellbeing is a life-shaping priority.

StreetVet vets and nurses, working with Streets Kitchen and other organisations, are out in the London community at least 4 days a week. In their first 18 months they have helped care for over 200 street dogs (and a few cats!). They have vaccinated and microchipped; treated for fleas and protected against lungworm; prescribed pain relief and helped fight infections; performed surgeries; and sometimes just sat and listened.

Today they operate in London, Brighton, Bristol, Cambridge, Plymouth, Birmingham, Cheltenham, Southampton and expect to expand.