Tails of the City

By Peggy Scott

The day-to-day existence that is life on the street affects not only man, but man’s best friend, too. And one look into the sad brown eyes of a dog was all it took for architect Charlotte Lantz to start planning how she would give back to the community.

A Normal Heights resident, Lantz noticed that several of the neighborhood’s homeless people had pets. And like their owners, these animals often did without. Lantz soon found out there were more than a few down-on-their-luck dogs involved. “The Regional Task Force for the Homeless did a count,” Lantz said. “There are around 70 to 90 people with dogs and/or cats living on the streets in San Diego.”

To help make life a little more comfortable for these homeless pets, Lantz began contacting local pet-related businesses, asking if they would help gather supplies for on-the-street animals. The result? “Paws without Pads,” a donation drive taking place June 27 to collect creature comforts such as new or gently used toys, grooming products, blankets, towels, beds, collars, food and treats. Donated items will be used, as Lantz said, “to help homeless pets enjoy their day a little more.”

As a followup to what Lantz hopes is a huge response to the donation drive, a “Paws without Pads Pet Wash” is planned for August in the East Village.

The companionship of their pets can be the only emotional support some homeless people receive. And while their living situation isn’t what most would consider positive, their bond with their pets more certainly is. “People on the street love their pets and want to take care of them,” Lantz said. “Some of them stay on the street because homeless shelters don’t allow pets. They won’t leave their pets behind.”

If you have blankets, pet food, beds or any other pet supplies you would like to donate, visit one of the collection stations on June 27.

Donation Collection Stations:

San Diego Pet Supply
1490 Island Ave.
(619) 263-2211
(East Village)

City Dog
545 Park Blvd.
(619) 269-0201
(East Village)

Peggy Scott is a freelance pet writer. She can be contacted at [email protected]