Christian Kjaer, the co-founder of The ElleVet Project, stressed the importance of pets in the lives of many homeless people. His mobile clinic reportedly provides free healthcare services for their four-legged friends.
Pets are Family
In a report with The Orlando Sentinel, Kjaer explained that pets are a saving grace for the nation's homeless. They provided mental stability and support.
He emphasized that pets also provide joy to their owners. The co-founder pointed out that by helping the pets, they are helping the nation's homeless.
The mobile veterinary clinic set up its stall at Orlando's Christian Service Center on Thursday, Jan. 13. Many homeless people who came to avail of the faith-based nonprofit's service stopped by the clinic.
Helping Homeless
Christian Service Center offers services to battle homelessness in Central Florida. Kjaer provides check-ups, vaccinations, and flea medications for the beloved pets of the homeless community.
He told the news outlet that his nonprofit is based in Maine. Kjaer travels around the country, lending a hand to the homeless.
The co-founder emphasized that pets were like family to the homeless community. They were often the only companions they had. He realized the need to help them with this need.
Critical Way to Make Difference
The nonprofit was launched early in the COVID-19 pandemic, serving as the philanthropic arm of ElleVet Sciences. The science-based company markets pet products with cannabidiol and cannabidiolic acid.
Both are active ingredients in medical marijuana.
He shared that he saw many vulnerable populations affected because of COVID-19 shutdowns. It became a critical way to make a difference.
Last year, his nonprofit managed to treat 3,000 pets. Kjaer said that many homeless people valued their pets, often feeding them first before getting food for themselves.
The nonprofit also provides wound care, treatment of skin, eye, and ear issues. They also give away healthy food for their clients.
Kjaer stressed that he never turns away a sick patient in need. If one of the pets needs surgery, he refers them to a local veterinary hospital.
He says he usually covers the bill for surgeries.
Needing Help of Local Volunteers
As reported, local volunteers help Kjaer staff the clinic. Jacki Bert of Winter Park offered her services for the mobile nonprofit. She said she already helps out for the Christian Service Center every month.
Bert said that her first patient for the day was a soft-shell turtle. Kjaer added that he has also treated donkeys and chickens. But he often treats dogs and cats.
The veterinarian shared that many homeless people are out in the streets because most shelters will not take in their pets. She cites Orange County's Harbor House as one of the rare exceptions.
Forever Grateful
Bert's son also accompanies her when she volunteers her services. One of their clients is Bellarina, a 10-week-old Chihuahua-and-terrier mix.
They vaccinated the pup and gave her a check-up. Her owner, 32-year-old Troy, said that she was thankful for the service. Bellarina was gifted to her by a friend.
She explained that she wanted to take her dog to the vet, but they asked for $55. Troy said that she was saving up money to get a house for her and Bellarina.
Services such as this give her hope, and she is forever thankful.
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