Pet care for vulnerable residents of New York City including older adults and people living with disability or illness

In which borough should your idea take place? Manhattan

Do you have a specific neighborhood(s) in mind?

city-wide

Which audience(s) does your idea help? Select as many as apply.

Limited English proficient individuals

Low income individuals

Black, Indigenous, and POC

Older adults

Unemployed individuals

LGBTQ+ community

Immigrants and/or migrants

Public housing residents

People with disabilities

Describe the challenge you want to address:

Many vulnerable New Yorkers have pets who are undercared for, due to low-income status or being older adults, and people living with illness or disability. This project will coordinate pet care maintenance for individuals who are unable to do so themselves, including dog walking, litter box maintenance, pet pantry services, veterinary care services, and social visits, keeping people and animals together. It serves vulnerable individuals keeping their pet companions cared for and safe, while also keeping animals away from shelters.

Describe your idea and approach to address the challenge:

This project helps vulnerable individuals who are facing advancing age, disability, or illness, which present obstacles to physically caring for their pets. Many individuals are unable to leave their homes due to physical illness or disability, and providing a housecall pet care visit provides a social advantage, as well as critical support for their pet. Pet care services include: litter box maintenance, dog walking, grooming, feeding and administering medications, and social talks with clients, and also providing assistance with veterinary bills, pet food, and other assistance to pet guardians in dire need. Outreach efforts through community events and organizing volunteer networks will assist in reaching more individuals who need assistance with caring for their valuable pet companion.

Write the zipcode that best represents your New York City community:

10001