The San Diego Union Tribune - Pets in homeless shelters? Allowing them can preserve a ‘life-saving bond.’

People from around the country came to San Diego this week to learn how to create their own pet-friendly facilities.

SAN DIEGO — Babygirl, a young dachshund and chihuahua mix with long, golden hair, became homeless during the pandemic. So did her owner, and he searched far and wide for a shelter that would take the two of them.

Yet many programs in San Diego County only accepted humans.

“That was my deal breaker,” said Benjamin Noss, Babygirl’s 51-year-old owner. Sleeping in parks already filled Noss with despair. Why would he give up his one source of unconditional love?