The Amazing Adventures of Archibald Esq.

SuperWoof to the Salvation Army!

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The Salvation Army in Sheffield is piloting a new dog policy. The initiative is backed by the national dog welfare charity the Dogs Trust.

The Salvation Army is well known throughout the United Kingdom for providing safe accommodation to the homeless. Now that service is being extended to dogs at the International Christian Church and the charity’s Charter Row centre for the homeless in Sheffield.

It all started when the centre manager at Charter Row was approached by the Dogs Trust, who voiced concern that there were no homeless hostels in Sheffield that allowed dogs in — shutting dogs and the homeless who keep company with dogs in the cold.The centre responded by entertaining a trial and allowing two residents to have their dogs with them at the hostel.

The centre manager is on record expressing the following wise words: “To many people, not just homeless people, a dog is their best friend and being separated from their pet can be very traumatic. If you are homeless and have a dog, you might not seek temporary shelter in a hostel if you know you are going to have to give up your pet. Dogs Trust tells us that in many areas, where there are no dog friendly hostels available, homeless people are forced to sleep on the streets - they have no choice.”

Clare Kivlehan, Dogs Trust Hope Project Manager notes that Hope Project was set up in 1994 “to help dogs whose owners are homeless or facing housing crisis. We know from experience that homeless people care deeply for their dogs, look after them well and very often see them as their only real companion. At such a difficult time they are a source of comfort and a real responsibility. We offer free advice and assistance to hostels, shelters and day centres on welcoming dogs so that their owners are not forced to make a decision between accommodation and keeping their pet.”

The pilot scheme will be undertaken for 6 months. Before a dog is accepted at Charter Row it’s given a full medical and behavioural assessment. When necessary the dogs are vaccinated. No aggressive dogs are allowed in. But the comforts are minimal. No cuddling up together in bed, in the warmth (for a change): the centre provides indoor dog kennels so canines can sleep in their companion’s room.

All the same, better warm and safe than snuggling! Although only 2 dogs are allowed in the centre, homeless people and their dogs can come to register for a room. They can also register their dogs for free veterinary health checks.

SuperWoof to Sheffield’s Salvation Army! SuperWoof to the Dogs Trust! SuperWoof to Social Inclusion!

Awoof! Archibald

Posted 16 Jul 08