ABQ Times

The University of New Mexico’s Street Medicine program aims to meet people in the community and provide them with necessary care and resources. Recognizing that individuals living on the streets often have pets needing care, a new partnership has been formed to address this need.

For the past three months, the UNM Street Medicine team, part of the UNM School of Medicine, has conducted weekly pop-up clinics for homeless individuals in Albuquerque. Supported by Albuquerque Community Services (ACS) and other local partners, these clinics offer medical screenings and treatment, connections to UNM Health services and medications, food, water, and clean clothing.

Street Medicine's new partner, New Mexico Veterans for Pets (Vets for Pets), extends these comprehensive services to animals living on the street as well.

“We are learning from what we're seeing UNM Street Medicine Team do out here in the field—how do you interact with people, how do you make sure you've gathered the data you need—it’s a great model for us,” said Finnie Coleman, PhD, a faculty member at UNM and leader of Vets for Pets. “These pop-up events have been nothing short of inspiring. The doctors who come out, all of the support staff that come out, the work that they do in this community.”

The not-for-profit program has dual missions: assisting military veterans with PTSD by finding jobs in the pet care industry and helping local shelters by caring for animals at risk of being euthanized.

“We are fortunate to have this opportunity to work with Albuquerque Community Services so we can provide food and water for the animals that are in that community. Then as we come across veterans that need services, we can refer them to the VA hospital or other organizations that can help veterans,” Coleman stated.

Initiated during the pandemic, Vets for Pets provides veterinary services, medical supplies, food, water bowls, collars, leashes, training advice and triages animals harmed or behaving unusually.

Ramses attended a pop-up Street Medicine clinic seeking housing information but left with supplies for his puppy Troubles. “They said they have water and bowls for dogs,” Ramses noted. “I need a bowl for him actually—a leash too so that's good.”

Coleman emphasized that working with animals offers healing through unconditional love—a lesson he learned from his own service experience. “It is just a great way to have our veterans...allow them to express that human side of themselves,” he shared. “I’m proud to be a veteran...this has changed me...So being able to come out here in the community...help vets and help animals—I mean wow.”

Vets for Pets aims to provide more food and vaccines to pets in need. Those interested in donating or seeking services can click here.

For those wishing to donate supplies to the UNM Street Medicine team view their online wishlist HERE.

Follow these links below for more about UNM Street Medicine:

New Tools Help UNM Physician Assistant Expand Street Medicine Services

The Work and Value of Street Medicine