The Big Issue has launched a new initiative providing specially designed tabards for the dogs of its vendors, aiming to promote pet-friendly policies within temporary and social housing. The move aligns with recent updates to the Renters’ Rights Act, which have introduced greater protections for tenants with animals.

In partnership with Animal Friends Insurance, the organization is equipping its vendors’ dogs with the tabards to raise awareness about the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness who own pets. According to Rhianon Steeds, campaigning manager at the Big Issue, roughly 25% of individuals facing homelessness have a pet, yet many local authorities do not permit animals to accompany their owners in emergency accommodation.

The campaign seeks to highlight the need for more inclusive housing approaches that consider the well-being of both tenants and their companion animals. Advocates argue that denying pets access to emergency shelters often forces people to choose between their own safety and keeping their animals, which can contribute to further hardship and reluctance to accept temporary housing solutions.

By visibly marking vendors’ dogs with these tabards, the Big Issue hopes to foster greater empathy and support from landlords, policymakers, and the public. The initiative underscores ongoing efforts to ensure housing policies better reflect the realities of those experiencing homelessness and their relationships with their pets.