I’m working on a documentary about the Human-Animal bond in the homeless populations in Seattle with a colleague. I’ve been filming and field audio recording, sometimes with colleagues helping as an extra camera.
(All the images in this section are stills from the footage)
THE PROCESS:
We began by following a wonderful mobile veterinary non-profit, which offers free veterinary services to the homeless and low income populations in the Seattle area.
In order to reach as many homeless and low income people as they can, this organization goes to where people are, setting up their mobile clinics in such locations as Real Change, Recovery Cafe, Ballard Food Bank for a few hours a week.
I have filmed at 9 different locations, some of them on multiple occasions, recording the free veterinary work that this incredibly dedicated and compassionate team do for so many people, who can’t afford veterinary bills.
I interviewed the founder, Dr. Hanna Ekstrom, about her mission and objectives. One of her motivations is a belief that everyone has a right to have a pet whatever their financial situation.
At clinics I interviewed several regulars, interviewing some of them a number of times over the months.
The most moving part of the story clearly started to present itself, which was how the love for their animal companions propels these people through each day. With few people to trust and so many daily obstacles, their pets provide a profound psychological boost as a source of unwavering friendship and loyalty in a world that in every other sense they feel is against them.
Constantly we heard people say that taking care of their animal companions makes them take better care of themselves and try just a little bit harder each day. For this reason partnerships have been formed with other health and housing services, which set up shop at the veterinary clinics, so that people can get care for themselves while they seek help for their pets.
I first met this couple, Dana and Julian and their Chihuahua, Chico at Real Change in downtown Seattle.
They were instantly compelling for the strength of their bond with each other and with Chico, who has recurring health issues with his hip and anxiety.
I have been following their story and Chico’s story from their tent to transitional housing and their struggle with addiction.
Dina was able to get single housing recently, but Julian is still waiting for his single housing to come through.
Their one constant is Chico, who every day makes them want to do better.
At this point, their story is still unfolding. They are on a positive path, but they haven’t reached the end of their journey.
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