People experiencing homelessness face barriers to housing when they have pets, as it can be hard to find shelters that will accept animals. They may also be less apt to go to the doctor, sometimes prioritizing veterinary visits over their own health. A new program is trying to address the second problem, and, so far, the results have been positive.

The University of Washington’s Center for One Health Research operates a clinic that merges human and pet health care for teens and young adults experiencing homelessness. The Seattle One Health Clinic (OHC) provides free vet care when patients come in for their own health concerns. A study recently published in the Journal of Primary Care & Community Health – and funded in part by the National Institutes of Health - analyzed the effectiveness of this model, finding that it seemed to encourage patients to seek care.

The team found that of 88 people who visited between 2019 and 2022 – and whose pets received care at each visit - 75 saw a health care provider at least once, including nearly half who were doing so for the first time in at least two years. Additionally, 85% of the patients attended one or more follow-up appointments within two years of their first appointment.

Interestingly, 69% of visits were initially made because the patient was just looking for vet care.

Dr. Peter Rabinowitz, study co-author and clinic co-founder, says, “Adding veterinary care to a primary care clinic creates a supportive environment that is vastly different from a typical medical care facility. This unique atmosphere encourages clients to seek care for themselves as well as their animals.”

The team says their findings suggest this integrated care approach is a feasible and acceptable way for young people experiencing homelessness to access acute and preventive care, and it may improve participation in preventive, therapeutic, and follow-up care in this population. You can read more about the clinic here.