PALS East Bay is a small but seriously impactful nonprofit working across Oakland and Alameda County to make sure dogs and other pets don’t fall through the cracks when their owners do. They run free monthly vaccine and wellness clinics specifically designed for pet owners facing financial hardship or homelessness—situations where a dog’s health care often becomes impossible to afford.

What makes PALS different is their focus on the real obstacles people face. If you’re unhoused or struggling to get by, your dog still needs vaccines, flea prevention, and basic medical attention. PALS removes the barrier of cost so that doesn’t become a reason to surrender your dog or let health problems go untreated. They’ve built their whole operation around the idea that pets are part of people’s lives and families, and that shouldn’t change based on circumstances.

Beyond the monthly clinics, they offer direct services tailored to the needs of East Bay pet owners in crisis. Whether someone needs help accessing veterinary care, advice on keeping their dog healthy on the street, or resources to stay housed with their pet, PALS works to provide actual solutions rather than just talk. Their staff understands that for many people, their dog is their most important companion and anchor—losing that relationship can be devastating.

If you’re in a position to help, PALS is always looking for donations, volunteers, and partnerships with local veterinary clinics and animal organizations. Even if you’re not currently in need of their services, supporting them means more dogs get to stay with their owners instead of ending up in shelters. You can find current information about their clinic schedule and how to contribute on their website at palseastbay.org.