Mayhew’s Animal Welfare Officers and vets have once again joined the Crisis team and their volunteers at the annual Crisis at Christmas drop-in event that gives help, warmth and shelter to homeless people and their pets.

We have been a lifeline for homeless people and animals for almost 20 years, and have worked closely with Crisis for over half of that. At Crisis at Christmas, we provide thorough health checks and veterinary care for homeless dogs, whilst their owners receive help and advice from Crisis.

Each dog is able to bed down in a purpose built temporary kennel, and receives food, blankets, a warm coat and a safety collar, and non-emergency medical care such as flea or worm treatment. Our Animal Welfare Officers then ensure the dogs are in good physical health, and monitor any ongoing issues.

Our attending vets are also able to refer animals to our Community Vet Clinic for future treatment if necessary.

Deputy Head of Animal Welfare (Community), AJ Ford, said “We support homeless people and their pets with care and advice all year round. The Crisis at Christmas event is always special and we see many new and familiar people and their beloved animals. All the dogs we’ve seen this year received full vet checks and some will be coming back into our onsite Community Vet Clinic for further treatment, for free, over the coming weeks.”

During the Christmas period, it can feel especially isolating to not have a place to call home, and this is why the critical work ourselves and Crisis do to help homeless people needs extra support over the holidays.

Earlier this year, we announced a brand new range of virtual gifts in partnership with Crisis, and supporters can choose to donate £5, £10, £15 or £20. Funds raised will be split equally between both charities, and can help us provide much needed items and services for homeless people and their pets. To make a donation or support a virtual gift, please click here.

To find out more about how Mayhew makes a difference, please watch our brand new documentary series “Home is where their dog is”. These three short films reveal the poignant reality faced by homeless people and their animals, and show how important their relationship is – and how Mayhew helps protect this bond.

By helping animals, we are helping people.