A study in the Journal of Primary Care and Community Health found that youth experiencing homelessness were more likely to get medical care when clinics also offered veterinary care for pets. The research focused on clients at the One Health Clinic, a downtown Seattle program that combines services for people and animals.
The One Health Clinic is a seven-year collaboration between Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and the University of Washington Center for One Health Research. The clinic runs every second and fourth Wednesday. With oversight from a Neighborcare Health nurse practitioner and a WSU veterinarian, WSU veterinary students and health sciences students from UW provide care for people and their pets.
Difficult words
- homelessness — Living without a permanent home.
- veterinary — Related to animal medical care.
- health — A state of being free from illness.
- study — A research to learn something.
- trust — Having confidence in someone or something.
- clinic — A place for medical treatment.
- youth — Young people or adolescents.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why do you think pets help young people seek medical care?
- How can clinics help improve trust with young people?
- What other factors might influence youth health decisions?
