Impact Stories & Stats

The Grey Muzzle Organization

Over the past 15 years, the Grey Muzzle Organization has provided more than $4.6 million in grants to support its vision of “a world where no old dog dies alone and afraid.” This year, The Street Dog Coalition was one of 90 animal welfare groups chosen from 370 applicants to receive a grant to help senior dogs. With these funds we can help improve the lives of at-risk old dogs belonging to people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. “Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we’re delighted to help deserving organizations like The Street Dog Coalition make a difference in the lives of dogs and people in their communities,” Grey Muzzle’s Executive Director Lisa Lunghofer said.

Collaboration Leads to Housing

Dr. Hilary Wheeler, our Medical Director, was able to provide care for a client in her additional role as a Bay Area Team Lead. Dr. Wheeler was contacted by a social worker employed by the county. Their client, a young non-binary individual who is deaf, lost their housing and needed to secure a spot at a shelter that would allow them to remain with their beloved cat. The shelter required proof of a veterinary examination and Rabies vaccination in order to reserve the bed, neither of which was up to date. Dr. Wheeler helped coordinate transportation to her clinic where she provided a free physical examination, updated vaccinations and flea/tick prevention (using SDC supplies). She noted a flea allergy dermatitis on the cat, and administered flea prevention at the time of the visit. As a result, this vulnerable individual and their feline companion were able to qualify for safe shelter, and avoid a situation where they would be unhoused and unable to care for themselves and their cat.

The Transformative Power of the Human-Animal Bond

SDC’s founder, Dr. Jon Geller has encountered situations in his role as Fort Collins Team Lead that highlight the profound impact of the human-animal bond. Dr. Geller met a young man named Chris, who visited a local SDC clinic to obtain care for his pit mix, Precious. Precious was able to be spayed and vaccinated at no charge. Chris had recently been discharged from the military, was experiencing PTSD and, in his own words, “became catatonic and started repeating his name and rank over and over as he walked around." He credits his relationship with Precious for turning his life around. They are now safely housed and Chris is married and employed. Chris and Precious are pictured left.

Pups and Pride

We were thrilled to partake in our first NYC Street Clinic in conjunction with World Pride 2019 in June. It was a wonderful example of what can happen when multiple organizations work towards a common goal: providing veterinary and human health services for people and their pets who otherwise would not have access to such care. SO many thanks to everyone who gave their time, talent, and hearts to making this event a success, including My Dog Is My Home, Positive Tails, Orchard Grocer, Moo Shoes, Dog Guy Foundation, Boehringer Ingelheim, Hills Pet, AVMA Pride, NYCACC, Planned Parenthood, Suburbia Roller Derby, and all the NYC veterinarians, vet techs, and volunteers.

CLICK HERE for the first report of its kind examining the struggles and composition of families experiencing homelessness with companion animals in NYC.

Nancy and Maya’s Story

A recent San Jose clinic was visited by Nancy and her pup Maya, who is Nancy’s whole world and greatest love. Maya was able to receive core vaccinations including Lepto, in addition to flea/tick and heartworm prevention, and left the clinic ready to keep on sharing reciprocal love and support with Nancy!

CLICK HERE to see what Nancy said about her bond with Maya.

Real Love in Philadelphia

Our Development Director, Daria Tavana, captured a client at our Philadelphia clinic describing the profound impact of his connection with his dog, and how their bond transcends person-to-person interactions in his life.

CLICK HERE to hear him explain how his pup affirms the human-animal bond.