Woman living rough in Croydon because she won't give up her dog

EXCLUSIVE

by Jessica Amuah

A homeless woman is about to spend her fourth Christmas braving freezing temperatures on Croydon's streets - all because she refuses to abandon her pet dog.

Selene Woods, whose home is the Whitgift car park, says she has approached 30 private landlords in a bid to find permanent accommodation.

But the 29-year-old says none were willing to allow 11-year-old pooch Eris to move in with her.

"I can understand the landlords' no-pets policy but I just can't give Eris away," Selene explained.

"She's my companion, the only consistency I've had in my life in the last 11 years."

Selene has been homeless ever since she lost her place in a Lambeth Council hostel after what she claims was a benefits mix-up.

Now used to life on the streets she won't entertain the idea of going anywhere without Eris.

"People don't understand how valuable she is to me," she said.

"She's more than just a dog, she's like a member of my family. I would be lost without her."

Clare Kivlehan, project manager for animal welfare charity the Dogs Trust, says Selene is not alone in her plight.

She explained: "Homeless people care deeply for their dogs, look after them well and very often see them as their only real companion.

"At such a difficult time they are a source of comfort."

Life sleeping rough can be extremely dangerous for Selene and she is desperate to find accommodation for her and Eris.

She said: "There are more violent crimes happening in the area.

"Someone tried to mug me the other week but I had nothing worth taking.

"I want to find somewhere where I will be safe."

At the moment she pushes her worldly possessions, including her bedding, around in a pram.

"I've ended up like a posh bag lady," she said.

"Eris is very well-behaved and wouldn't cause any trouble.

"It is not right that I could be forced to give her away if I want a home. It is not an option for me right now."