Dr. Kwane Stewart: CNN Hero of the Year and Founder of Project Street Vet

Dr. Kwane Stewart is a veterinarian and the co-founder of Project Street Vet, a non-profit that provides free veterinary care for the pets of people experiencing homelessness in cities across the country.  His work earned him CNN Hero of the Year in 2023. His book is titled: What It Takes to Save a Life: A Veterinarian’s Quest for Healing and Hope.

Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Kwane Stewart, a veterinarian and co-founder of Project Street Vet, shares his journey from a successful veterinary career to providing free care for pets of the unhoused. He discusses the importance of empathy, the challenges faced by both animals and their owners in the homeless community, and the emotional toll of veterinary work. Dr. Stewart emphasizes the need for kindness and understanding towards those experiencing homelessness and highlights the strong bonds between them and their pets. His mission is to expand Project Street Vet to more cities, advocating for both animal welfare and human dignity.

Takeaways

·        Powerful childhood experiences, like watching The Black Stallion, can create powerful emotions that inspire career paths.

·        Bullying can lead to empathy and a desire to protect others.

·        The suicide rate among veterinarians is notably high due to emotional stress.

·        Project Street Vet was born from a desire to help animals in need.

·        Building trust with the unhoused community is essential for effective care.

·        Many unhoused individuals have strong bonds with their pets, often prioritizing them over their own housing.

·        Funding and volunteer support are crucial for sustaining veterinary care for the unhoused.

·        Kindness, compassion, and empathy are vital in addressing homelessness and animal welfare.

Notes

Book: What It Takes to Save a Life: A Veterinarian's Quest for Healing and Hope

Veterinary care charity: Project Street Vet 

Personal Website: Dr. Kwane Stewart