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Description

25% of people experiencing homelessness have pets, but few transitional housing programs allow pets (Rhoades et al., 2015); therefore, there is a gap in the literature about the experience of pet ownership during the transitional housing process. This study aimed to explore pet owners' experiences at a transitional housing site in San Diego County. The student interviewed two current dog owners and four recent dog owners. All participants prioritized their pets because it was their strongest relationship. The prioritization of their dogs positively and negatively influenced occupational engagement. While receiving services, owners experienced consequences when separated from their dogs, including a decline in motivation, depressed mood, and loss of purpose. Three participants lost ownership of their dogs due to unreliable caregivers, resulting in unresolved emotions that interfered with accomplishing goals. Since their dogs are significant figures in their lives, it is essential to consider them when determining goals and housing options. Working towards maintaining dogs with their owners has potential positive benefits.

Publication Date

Summer 8-19-2024

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Homelessness, Pet owners, Transitional housing, Separation from pet, Occupational engagement

Medical Subject Headings

Ill-housed persons, Dogs, Motivation, Housing, Humans

Disciplines

Animal Studies | Inequality and Stratification | Occupational Therapy

Comments

Poster presented at an in-person OTD Capstone Symposium for the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences on August 19, 2024.

The Experience of Pet Ownership in Transitional Housing

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