People living on a low-income budget or who are homeless often have difficulty providing for themselves let alone a pet.
However, on Tuesday a group of Calgary veterinarians provided some free care for animals whose owners are struggling financially.
“Her quality of life is just as valuable to me as my quality of life,” Brad Pourier said of his dog Honey.
For the past three weeks, the pair had been “living rough,” as he called it.
“Sleeping bag or blanket… Outdoors, riverbank or in a park someplace.”
Pourier said paying for a meal for himself sometimes takes a backseat to providing for his dog.
“I got 60 bucks left and we buy good food for her instead of getting me a couple cans of tuna.”
For eight years, Honey has been his constant by providing mental support and never wavering from his side.
“She’s a grounder. Keeps me level. Keeps me responsible. Keeps me accountable,” he said.
“Not much in this world that I’m attached to more.”
Spearheaded by Vets To Go, Honey is one of about 40 pets who were examined for free on Tuesday. The program is a first for the Calgary Mustard Seed.
“The animals are in amazing shape. They’re groomed. They’re well cared for,” Dr. Wendy McClelland, founder of Vets To Go, said..
“I thought I would see a lot that had more issues but I’ve been amazed at how much they’re truly loved.”
Following three weeks on the street, Brad and Honey are finally moving into a shared accommodation: “Roof over our heads. Food in our bellies.”
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