The Dog Food Pantry was organized by Dr. Kwane Stewart, an LA-based veterinarian who has assisted the pets of Skid Row for over 12 years. Known as “The Street Vet” throughout California, Stewart’s TikTok profile has amassed over two hundred thousand followers and documents his journey healing unhoused dogs and cats.
Dr. Kwane Stewart: “In that moment and in these moments, I’ve discovered there’s a connection between myself and the other human through this animal.”
Stewart organized the pantry after noticing that pets along Skid Row often fail to meet nutritional standards. While other services occasionally provide pet food, dogs are often relegated to finding sustenance on the streets.
Stewart launched the nonprofit Project Street Vet in collaboration with Fetch Pet Insurance in 2022. Through the program “101 Donations,” Fetch Pet will match donations up to $101,000 dollars to aid the nonprofit’s efforts along Skid Row.
In a TikTok, Stewart spoke on his motivation for aiding unhoused owners and pets in need.
Stewart: “It doesn’t matter what your situation is, or what your background or past is. I see a pet in need and I see a person who cares for them dearly who just needs some help.”
For those interested in visiting, you can find the pet food pantry at the Skid Row Community Refresh Spot in downtown Los Angeles.
For Annenberg Media, I’m Dominic Varela.