Paws & Purpose
Plus foster update, rescuer retreat, 126 new vets, and a book recommendation.
In today’s news: Snickers and Midnight found a home, animal shelter workers and rescuers in south Georgia are invited to a free retreat, University of Minnesota Veterinary School graduated 126 new vets, Empty Nest Joy Ride is launched.
But first a story…
STORY PAUSE
Finding Warmth in the Coldest Places
A blast of frigid air announced the arrival of Richard and his wolf-like dog, Owen. Dr. Stefan sprang from the check-in table to greet them. After handshakes, they walked to an exam table staffed with a veterinarian and two technicians. Owen stayed for his care while the men returned to the makeshift waiting room of folding chairs in a donated warehouse space.
Volunteer Jon approached with coffee, bread, bagels, and homemade dog treats. At the bottom of his stack was a French silk pie large enough for twelve. Richard gratefully accepted everything except the pie, tucking the goods into his worn backpack.
Without a car or home, Richard and Owen had walked nine miles from a St. Paul shelter to the Minneapolis clinic in below-zero temperatures. The journey was worth it—Richard had finally qualified for subsidized housing, and securing a rabies certificate for Owen was the final requirement. Soon, no more frigid nights on the streets trying to keep both warm.
Dr. Stefan moved through the clinic with boundless energy, greeting visitors with hearty handshakes and quick smiles, showing no signs of fatigue. He'd asked volunteers to arrive early to help set up The Street Dog Coalition pop-up clinic, but we knew he'd been there hours before us.
He likely started his morning in darkness with visitors who'd come before daybreak. Word had spread that one needed to arrive early to secure a spot at this first-come, first-served clinic. By the time volunteers gathered, Dr. Stefan had already distributed most appointment numbers. Ffifteen minutes before the first patient was seen, a waiting list was five pets long.
I sat at the welcome table, fielding questions and updating patient forms. Like a deli clerk, I'd occasionally call out numbers. When there was no answer, I'd brave the cold to find someone waiting in their vehicle.
The clinic door opened and closed as people with pets arrived. A young woman with auburn hair was pulled by two regal shepherds who quickly found Jon's goodie table. Her two children enthusiastically accepted slices of French silk pie.
An elderly man in a motorized wheelchair carried a small carrier with a black cat named Brownie nestled among spare clothes. A gray-haired woman pushed a stroller with two ginger tabbies snuggled in fleece.
Pet parents on cold metal chairs offered gentle pats, scratches, and soothing words to restless animals. These were people accustomed to waiting. The exams and vaccinations were free, but they paid with their time. The irony wasn't lost on me—we volunteers gave our extra time while visitors spent this precious commodity seeking care for their pets.
It takes a village to host a Street Dog clinic. At the Minneapolis location, about twenty volunteers attend each monthly event in the borrowed warehouse. Teams in 60 U.S. cities organize similar clinics for pets of those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Some have expanded their menu to include "both ends of the leash," offering medical care and hygiene services to the people accompanying their pets. At headquarters, a small but dedicated team raises funds, builds partnerships, and promotes the organization.
Each Street Dog event sees a constant flow of people and pets, but two things remain consistent: People who deeply love their pets will overcome incredible obstacles to get them care, and compassionate individuals will come together to provide that care.
Every clinic reminds me of the lengths we go for those we love. Watching Richard and Owen, alongside others facing their own challenges, I'm struck by the unbreakable bond between humans and their animal companions. These moments—filled with warmth, hope, and belonging—show that even in the coldest winters, love thrives.
The clinic buzzes with activity throughout the day. Veterinarians examine pets for common issues, administer vaccines, and provide medications for basic ailments. Volunteers distribute pet food, collars, leashes, and other supplies. Some visitors leave with information about additional resources for both themselves and their animals.
By the day's end, Owen received his rabies certificate—the golden ticket to Richard's new housing. As they prepared for their long walk back, Dr. Stefan slipped extra dog treats into Richard's pack. Jon appeared with a small backpack filled with winter essentials for both of them.
In that moment, I witnessed the essence of The Street Dog Coalition—not just providing veterinary care but recognizing the dignity and humanity in every person who walks through the door. The organization understands that for many experiencing homelessness, pets provide unconditional love, protection, and purpose.
As Richard and Owen disappeared into the winter afternoon, I understood why volunteers return month after month. In a world that can feel isolating and cold, these clinics create a space where everyone belongs—where both pets and people are treated with compassion, respect, and care.
That's the true power of community—finding warmth in the coldest places, and reminding all that we're never truly alone when we have each other.
FOSTER UPDATE
Snickers and Midnight have settled nicely into their new home! Their mom, Kris, sends me weekly updates of the two best friends snuggling in sun puddles and playing with new toys. Snickers is still a bit shy, but he has taken to sleeping near her feet in the night. Midnight had his first vet check since Kris took over administering his medications. His thyroid levels are in the normal range. Kudos to Kris for committing to their care. Thriving cats are happy pets.
FREE RETREAT TO HELP DOGS:PLEASE SHARE
If you are an animal shelter worker, rescuer, volunteer, change maker, government official, community member, or just want to see better welfare for dogs, join me, Cara Achterberg, and Who Will Let The Dogs Out on June 7 for a one-day event to learn, collaborate, support, and network. The shelter crisis is real, but we are Stronger Together. Tifton, Georgia (USA), 8:00-4:00 ET.
126 NEW VETERINARIANS
Wearing black robes with gray sueded stripes, 126 students of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine Class of 2025 elevated their status to doctors after reciting the Veterinarian’s Oath. A palpable pride rose with the clapping from the audience of family members, faculty, and friends. Four years of education will help them lean into a lifetime of learning and giving. Best wishes to all graduates on your journeys.
BOOK RECOMMENDATION
Empty Nest Joy Ride by Linda Hanstra is hot off the presses. I finished my copy as an early reader and urge you to buy the book. Read it for yourself if you are in or nearing an empty nest. Send it to a newly engaged couple. It will provide insight into the evolution of a loving relationship and the nurturing necessary for it to grow.
MOST POPULAR POST THIS MONTH
I triggered a good nerve when I asked two readers how their pets gave them purpose. Read their stories and the ensuing conversation on my other newsletter, PetStack, and the post Is Your Pet the Reason You Get Up In the Morning.
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Loved this. Felt for Richard and Owen having to walk the 9 miles back ‘home’ but I’m sure it was better than the walk to the clinic, following bagels, doggie treats and much love
I loved this update! What an amazing clinic. I wish they happened everywhere. Beautifully written!