If you’re a dog lover, you’ll understand this story. If you’re not, I invite you to read on—perhaps you’ll gain some insight into why people, especially those experiencing homelessness, hold their dogs so dear.
I have two dogs. One, my sweet senior, is 15 ½ years old, deaf, and mostly blind. I had to leave him behind when I came to Austin, and I miss him dearly. My other dog, a young and energetic 68-pound Irish Doodle, is here with me. He’s my constant companion, walking me through my new neighborhood and making my time away from home much easier. While interning here for a few months, I’ve been away from my husband, family, and friends, but with my dog by my side, I feel grounded and connected to home. His unconditional love makes every day a little brighter, and he’s become a favorite in the community
Austin is a dog-friendly place, and in my time here, I’ve come to understand why dogs are such important companions to people experiencing homelessness. Like many, I used to wonder, “Why would someone without a home have a dog? How can they care for a pet when they struggle to care for themselves?” I thought these dogs might be better off in a stable, permanent home.
But over the past few months, I’ve gained a new perspective. I’ve learned that, just like me, many people experiencing homelessness love their dogs deeply. For some, their dog is their security—alerting them to strangers and protecting them. Others took in strays out of compassion, giving them a second chance when no one else would.
Yesterday, I discovered an even deeper reason. For many, their dog is their purpose. A pet gives them a reason to get up each day, a source of hope that tomorrow could bring something better. A dog’s love is unconditional and without judgment, offering companionship and comfort in the hardest of times.
I saw this firsthand when we interviewed a potential new neighbor. Sue (not her real name) shed tears of joy—not for herself, but for her dog. They had just been approved for permanent housing, a safe place where they could both start their journey toward healing. The relief she felt wasn’t just about having a roof over her head; it was about knowing her loyal companion would be safe, too.
We’re committed to providing permanent housing and supportive services for the chronically homeless—and that includes their pets. Unconditional love is at the core of what we do. It’s not always easy, but we can learn from dogs. They don’t care if their person is homeless or housed, rich or poor. Their tails still wag, and their love never wavers.
We invite you to join us in this mission. As Jesus taught us, love isn’t just about words; it’s about action. Together, we can show the chronically homeless and their pets the generous, unconditional love they deserve.
**1 John 3:17-18 (NIV):** *If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.*
For more information on Community Forever Village and how you can become involved in this effort to help support our Homeless Neighbors and their pets please contact us here!
We are located at: 2505 W. University Dr., Suite 1010, Box 265, Denton, TX 7620.
