Sam and dogs leaning out car window

How pet ambulance service Howl-tzolah came to care for animals’ owners

Since 2013, Sam Kovac has devoted time and money to helping animals who live on the streets.

In an initiative called Project HoPe, the young vet offers check-ups, vaccinations and complex surgery at his two Sydney clinics, free of charge for those in need.

About a year ago, as he treated a dog with ligament problems, he realised he was in a unique position to help the owners of pets as well.

The dog’s owner visited with his pet frequently, and in the process divulged he was homeless, long-term unemployed and had psychological issues.

“I thought ‘we’re looking after his dog, but maybe we can look after him too’,” Dr Kovac said.

He organised for the man to be transferred to Jewish House, a non-denominational crisis centre around the corner from his Bellevue Hill clinic.

Read the full article by Georgina Mitchell at The Brisbane Times.