By Jill Allyn
Dr. Stewart is a veterinarian who lives and works in California. While trying to manage the dark, depressing and crumbling animal shelter in Stanislaus County, he suffered burnout and depression due to the lack of shelter resources and high euthanasia rates. He reconnected emotionally with his profession when he started delivering free services to the large homeless population in San Diego. His story is inspiring, and along the way we meet many pet parents that not only love their animals but depend on them for hope, security and family.
Dr. Stewart had no experience with the unhoused, and was surprised to learn how well cared for their animals are. These companion animals tend to be with their owners all day and night, and are tightly bonded with their people. The settings they live in are social, and the dogs, cats and birds are better able to deal with strangers, noise and disruptive behaviors than animals owned by the housed population. Many of these animals give comfort to tent neighbors, providing much-needed calming. The homeless typically spend scarce dollars on pet food first and then on other necessities.
Dr. Stewart introduces us to several people and their animals, giving short backgrounds on how they came to be living on the street. He responds to the animals’ health needs by forming Project Street Vet, and asks local veterinarian clinics for space and time in operating rooms. Project Street Vet serves the homeless in San Diego and Los Angeles by performing well animal exams, giving vaccinations, and conducting emergency surgeries. The title also serves to remind us that generosity and kindness saves lives, including his own.
224 pages, 2023. Project Street Vet