SAN ANGELO, TX — Nestled in a residential neighborhood on 14th Street in San Angelo, a homeless camp has emerged as a complex confluence of human struggles, compounded by the presence of approximately 30 stray dogs, most of which are not spayed or neutered. This makeshift community faces various challenges, driven by factors such as economic hardship, unemployment, mental illness, and substance abuse.
One resident offering a glimpse into this reality is 42-year-old Conner B., who shares the camp with his brother and their four dogs. Their presence in the homeless camp has been sporadic over the past three years. Conner, despite declining an on-camera interview, agreed to an on-record conversation with reporters from San Angelo Live.
During the interview, Conner showcased a sizable circular "pop-up" living quarters where he, his brother, and their dogs reside. This makeshift dwelling has occasionally accommodated other camp residents seeking shelter. Conner revealed that the decision to move to the homeless camp arose from difficulties in finding rental housing that would accept their large dogs.
Expressing frustration, Conner stated, "Yeah, man, I felt like I really didn't have an option. Everywhere I looked, pets were either not allowed or the deposit for four dogs was outrageously expensive. These dogs are my family. They are like my children. If they aren't allowed, then I am not doing it." Consequently, Conner and his dogs relocated to the camp where his brother had already been staying for the past two years.
Conner and his Dogs
(Credit: SA LIVE, Matt Cutrer)
Dog tricks
(Credit: SA LIVE, Matt Cutrer)
Stray Dog in Camp
(Credit: SA LIVE, Matt Cutrer)
Reflecting on the unexpected turn of events, Conner shared, "Yeah, it's been a couple of years now that I've lived here with my brother. It's so crazy, man. I used to come here just to drop food and supplies off to him, and now look at me, I'm right here with him, living in squalor."
The 14th Street Homeless Camp not only accommodates individuals but is also home to numerous dogs, either abandoned, belonging to camp residents, or part of the broader homeless community. Most of these dogs remain unaltered, contributing to challenges faced by local animal shelters.
When asked about the overpopulation issue, Conner responded, "Yeah, my dogs are definitely not spayed or neutered. I used to breed these dogs. This was my livelihood, so I couldn't get them fixed. Plus, I would never want to do that to them anyway; it's not natural." Conner acknowledged the broader issue of overcrowded shelters but pointed out the difficulty for camp residents to prioritize spaying and neutering amid their struggle for basic survival.
Surprisingly, Conner's well-trained dogs showcased obedience and performed several tricks and commands during the interview. Conner emphasized that most dogs in the camp were not as well-behaved, describing them as "aggressive" and challenging to control.
As for breeding within the camp, Conner explained that dogs in the camp would occasionally have litters, and the pups would find homes among the residents. However, challenges arise when new owners face legal issues, leaving dogs without proper care and potentially contributing to aggressive behavior among them.
The 14th Street Homeless Camp reflects the broader homelessness challenge in San Angelo, amplified by overcrowded animal shelters and concerns about abandoned dogs. The camp attracts individuals facing various circumstances, from those in temporary housing transitions to those grappling with mental health issues and substance abuse. The presence of stray dogs, while well-intentioned, adds to the dilemma of shelter overcrowding and the unfortunate practice of mass euthanasia. Addressing these multifaceted issues requires a comprehensive and community-driven approach to provide support, resources, and sustainable solutions for both the homeless population and the animals affected.
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