News / Homeless
‘If it wasn’t for him, I’d probably be gone’
People living on the streets in Bristol have opened up about how their pets have prevented them from taking their own lives.
The city’s escalating homelessness crisis, exacerbated by the rising cost of living and rents outstripping wages and benefits, has been well documented.
Now, the life-saving support offered by animals is highlighted in a new BBC documentary that explores the bond between people at their most vulnerable and their four-legged companions.
is needed now More than ever
“He’s the one thing that’s stopped me committing suicide in the past, because there wouldn’t be anyone for him,” says Cat, a rough sleeper in Bristol.
Many people admitted to feeding their dogs before themselves – even when times are at their hardest.
The BBC Inside Out West documentary first aired on Monday evening and also shines a light on the vets working to ensure animals living on the streets are healthy.
Alix Longhurst says the bond between rough sleepers and their dogs is undeniable
Veterinary nurse Alix Longhurst makes regular visits to medicate and organise operations for street pets.
She says: “They’re generally in really good condition and really well looked after – just really happy dogs. They’ve got constant companionship and get to spend time outdoors.
“The amount of times I’ve spoken to owners and they’ve said ‘I make sure my dog is fed before me’ – they just really look after their dogs, and that bond with their dogs is undeniable.
“Their animals keep them going and they look after each other, and it’s really lovely to see.”
Some rough sleepers refuse to stay in hostels because they don’t allow pets
Rough sleeper Mel (main photo), who like the other homeless quoted did not want to give her surname, said: “If you’ve got nothing on the streets, you’re constantly down and you’ll end up doing yourself over. If you’ve got a dog, a cat, or even a ferret on the streets, it’s company.
“My husband bought me my cat on Valentine’s Day, if it wasn’t for him I’d probably be gone, passed away.”
Brian talks about how much his pets mean to him
Brian added: “These are like my children, I don’t have any kids, these are my babies.”
The story is included in the first of a ten episode run of Inside Out West, the BBC’s regional investigations programme that is available on iPlayer.
Main photo from BBC Inside Out West
Read more: New 24-hour ‘hub’ for homeless to open in centre of Bristol
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