Effects of Companion Animal Ownership among Canadian Street-involved Youth: A Qualitative Analysis

Authors

Michelle Lem, University of Guelph
Jason B. Coe, University of Guelph
Derek B. Haley, University of Guelph
Elizabeth Stone, University of Guelph
William O'Grady, University of Guelph

Keywords

Homeless, companion animals, street-involved, youth, young adults

Abstract

In Canada, approximately 150,000 youth are homeless on any given night, and many have companion animals. Through a series of semi-structured interviews, this qualitative study explored the issues and effects of companion animal ownership among street-involved youth from the perspective of the youth themselves. "Pet before self" was the substantive theme, with first level sub-themes of "physical" and "emotional" effects. Previously unidentified findings include benefits of having a companion animal, such as creating structure and routine and decreasing use of drugs. Loss of the companion animal was a negative effect. Youth consistently reported making choices to stay with their animal regardless of liabilities for their own health or success. Service providers should understand and support the significant human-animal bond that can exist for these homeless youth.

Recommended Citation

Lem, Michelle; Coe, Jason B.; Haley, Derek B.; Stone, Elizabeth; and O'Grady, William (2013) "Effects of Companion Animal Ownership among Canadian Street-involved Youth: A Qualitative Analysis," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 40: Iss. 4, Article 15.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.3771
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol40/iss4/15