California's state budget includes $5 million for veterinary care for homeless

California is leading the way to help pets of the homeless with $5 million dollar grant fn their state budget.

The money will help provide veterinary care at qualified homeless shelters, allowing those living on the streets to access care for their pets.

Most animal welfare advocates are applauding this effort, saying it addresses the issue that many homeless pet owners avoid shelters because they tend to have no pet policies.

“The positive impact on the lives of pet owners experiencing homelessness will rise with this humane and humanitarian effort supporting both ends of the leash,” Gina Knepp, animal care services manager of the Front Street Animal Shelter in Sacramento, told FOX 2. “If we are ever to solve the homeless crisis, we must address the animal component. Pets are family, the human animal bond is not diminished whether living on the streets or living in a home.”

California’s governor, Gavin Newsom, promised to make homelessness and the housing crisis his top priority. $2.4 billion of his $214.8 billion budget calls for funds to address those concerns.