Street-involved, homeless Winnipeg youth and their pets offered free check-ups

With a pet rat on her shoulder and a cat in her arms, Ursa Burdenkeeper left a Winnipeg clinic with a little peace of mind Saturday.

Sallythe rat and Salemthe catare in good health something a free check up at Resource Assistance for Youth (RaY) revealed.

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The non-profit works with street-involved and homeless youth and partnered with volunteer dentists and veterinarians Saturday to givedozens of clients and their petscheckups and treatment.

"Today was a real blessing for both me and my pets," said Burdenkeeper, 28.

Burdenkeeper uses RaY services regularly and said she can't afford costly vet work.

"I'm here for them more than I am for myself," she added.

Saturday's event was a first for RaY but similar events havetaken place in other Canadian provinces.

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Dr. Susan Kilborn, a veterinarian who helped look at some of the pets that arrived Saturday, said pet owners benefit when their furry loved ones are in good health. She said it's part of a concept calledOne Health.

"They are so highly bonded to their pets that if their pets are well and well taken care of, it has a positive impact on their health."

James Carroll brought his python Chesnato the clinic andsaid it felt nice to know someone cared about him and his beloved snake.

"Today we are definitely being looked upon in a better light."