In addition to serving young people experiencing homelessness and their children, My Friend’s Place offers care and support for our young people’s animal companions as part of our low-barrier approach. The Animal Companion Program provides comprehensive care for the animal companions of our young people, most of whom are dogs, who often provide therapeutic relationships and emotional support to youth in our services.

Our program provides food, pet care supplies and education on animal companionship, ensuring that all dogs are well taken care of. We also work closely with veterinary care partners in the area to meet the medical needs of these animal companions, including from flea treatments, microchipping, vaccines and spay/neuter surgeries, while also covering the costs of all medical care with support from our partners at the Happy Hippie Foundation.

This Summer, the puppies of My Friend’s Place need your help. We’re currently accepting in-kind contributions of dry and wet dog food, leashes and harnesses, and Petco gift cards to help keep these furry friends happy, healthy and safe. Your gift will provide young people and their animal companions with necessary supplies to support the wellness of these beloved animal companions, which in turn supports the wellness of our young people.

Click here to shop our Animal Companion Program Amazon Wish List, or e-mail Daniel Lee at dlee@myfriendsplace.org to coordinate a drop-off or for information on hosting a drive on your community! Drop-off contributions are accepted Monday through Friday at 5850 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028 between 9 A.M. and 5 P.M.