Recent observations have highlighted a concerning trend in the relationship between homeless individuals, their canine companions, and the effects of forced displacement. Traditionally, dogs have played a vital role in homeless communities, offering both emotional support and physical protection (Scanlon et al., 2021). Research has consistently shown that the human-animal bond is particularly strong among homeless individuals and their dogs, with these animals providing companionship, security, and emotional stability (Yang et al., 2021).
When homeless individuals and their dogs are repeatedly displaced from their familiar areas, it creates a cascade of unintended consequences. Bradshaw et al. (2017) note that dogs are inherently social animals that form complex group structures, typically living in tight-knit communities that share and defend specific territories. These dogs, which often form pseudo-pack structures within homeless encampments, become deeply disoriented when their established social and territorial boundaries are abruptly dismantled. Dogs, which typically maintain specific territories and protect their human companions within these known spaces, become particularly stressed when forced to constantly relocate, disrupting their fundamental social organization and protective instincts.
