The Providing for Unhoused People and Pets Act (a.k.a. PUPP Act) has been introduced with bipartisan support in the United States Congress. As Susan Riggs, Senior Director of Housing Policy for the ASPCA, explained, this bill would make federal funding available to retrofit homeless and domestic violence shelters so they can accommodate pets. Too often, individuals in crisis must choose between housing and the animal that provides them comfort and security. The PUPP Act seeks to eliminate that barrier.

The bill is based on two models. The USDA’s PAWS Act pays for pet-friendly housing for survivors of domestic violence. Second, California’s PATH program has allocated $16 million over three years to support shelters in modifying their facilities. With applications outnumbering by two to one, demand has significantly outpaced available funding.

Amy Carotenuto, Executive Director of the Flagler Humane Society, noted that pets are often the only source of stability for people experiencing homelessness. The PUPP Act offers a realistic path forward by easing the burden on shelters, safeguarding the bond between people and their animals, and providing a source of comfort for both animals and humans. Riggs invited listeners and readers to contact their representatives to share their personal experiences and support the bill. 

Watch or listen to the full conversation with Susan Riggs on pet-inclusive housing policies and the PUP Act.