Homeless addicts in LA using dogs to test drugs for fentanyl

Nonprofit warns of rampant animal abuse as homeless crisis worsens

Apr. 18, 2026 at 7:33pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a worn, tattered dog collar against a stark black background, conceptually representing the neglect and abuse of homeless dogs used as makeshift drug test kits on the streets.The heartbreaking reality of homeless addicts exploiting vulnerable dogs as living drug test kits on the streets of Los Angeles.Los Angeles Today

Homeless individuals on Skid Row in Los Angeles have resorted to using dogs to test their drugs for the presence of fentanyl, a dangerous and potentially deadly opioid. If the dog survives after being fed the drugs, the person will then take the drugs themselves. If the dog dies, they simply get another dog to use as a living test kit. A local nonprofit called 'Starts With One Today' is sounding the alarm about this disturbing trend, which highlights the growing homelessness and drug abuse crisis in California.

Why it matters

This shocking practice exposes the dire circumstances and desperation facing many homeless individuals struggling with addiction, as well as the severe lack of resources and support systems to address these intertwined crises. It also shines a light on the rampant animal abuse and neglect occurring on the streets, as vulnerable dogs are being exploited and discarded in the most inhumane way.

The details

According to the nonprofit 'Starts With One Today', homeless addicts on Skid Row in Los Angeles have resorted to using dogs as living test kits for their drugs. They will feed the dogs the drugs first, and if the dog survives, the person will then take the drugs themselves. If the dog dies, they simply get another dog to use for the same purpose. This disturbing practice highlights the extreme lengths people will go to in order to test for the presence of fentanyl, a highly potent and deadly opioid that has exacerbated the overdose crisis.

  • This alarming trend has been observed by the nonprofit in recent months on the streets of Skid Row in Los Angeles.

The players

Starts With One Today

A local nonprofit organization that works to address homelessness and addiction issues in Los Angeles, and is now sounding the alarm about the use of dogs as drug test kits by homeless individuals.

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What they’re saying

“We are seeing a horrific new low as homeless addicts resort to using innocent dogs as living test kits for their drugs. This is an absolute travesty and we must act now to protect these vulnerable animals and get people the help they desperately need.”

— Sarah Thompson, Executive Director, Starts With One Today

The takeaway

This disturbing practice highlights the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address the intertwined crises of homelessness and addiction in California, as well as stronger animal welfare protections and resources to prevent such egregious acts of abuse.