Wilson B. was in such a situation after the factory where he worked shut down and he lost his home to foreclosure. Wilson confided via an exclusive email interview with Petcentric that he considered surrendering his dog, Free, to the local shelter when he learned he was losing his home. He said he was heartsick at the thought of giving up his best friend, but did not know where he was going to live. Wilson feels he had it better than many homeless people at first, though. "I set up a tent at the local campground and lived in the tent with Free. It wasn't home, but at least we were together. I don't think I would have made it through that time to get where I am now if he hadn't been with me. But, I would have had a hard time getting a job, even if there were jobs around here to get, because I couldn't leave Free alone in the tent."

Help with Pet Care Costs

Wilson was not able to find help feeding or caring for Free during the transition to homelessness, but he managed to keep Free with him until he got back on his feet. According to Wilson, Free comforted him during the darkest time of his life and gave him a reason to keep fighting. However, if assistance, such as the programs mentioned below, had been available for Wilson and Free, the impact of losing their home might have been lessened, making it easier for them to stay together.

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