Two companion studies highlighted in the latest Journal of Shelter Medicine and Community Animal Health share challenges specific to Black, Indigenous and People of Color pet owners. Studies were conducted via focus groups in four U.S. cities.
Sources:
- “It’s Not as Cut-and-Dry as a Landlord Would Hope”; BIPOC Pet Owners’ Experiences Navigating Housing Systems in Four U.S. Cities. Link.
Participants described a general shortage of pet-inclusive housing, restrictive and unclear pet policies, financial barriers, and difficulty obtaining emotional support animal accommodations. The reported impacts were prolonged housing insecurity, noncompliance with pet policies, and pet rehoming. Suggested solutions covered housing system reform, expanded supports and services, self-advocacy, and mutual aid.
- “It’s Becoming a Privilege to Own a Pet”; Pet Acquisition Experiences for Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino Families in Four U.S. Cities. Link.
Barriers to shelter and rescue adoption included experiences of judgment, lengthy or intrusive screening processes, and a lack of cultural responsiveness. Some participants described experiences of discrimination particularly related to race and income. Others relied on friends, family and neighbors instead, citing convenience, trust and affordability.
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