Crusading vet treats some of LA's most cherished residents: The pets of skid row
LOS ANGELES — Kilo, a muscular gray pit bull, stood staunchly by his homeless owner in the middle of 6th Street on L.A.'s skid row. His tongue lolled out, and his wide, square jaw was open as if he was grinning ear to ear.
"Is this your boy?" Dr. Kwane Stewart asked as he walked toward the pair.
Hector Abadin yanked on Kilo's chain leash and turned to walk away without saying a word.
"I'm a veterinarian," Stewart said. "I walk the area and find pets like yours and give free medical care."
Abadin stopped. He'd been living on the street for the last year, and this was the first time he'd had a chance to get medical care for Kilo or his other four-legged companions. He looked down at the dog, then up at Stewart.
"I have his girlfriend at home," he said in Spanish, pointing to Kilo. "She had puppies today. Come!"
For 12 years, exchanges like this have made up much of Stewart's free time. About twice a month, the San Diego veterinarian makes his way to homeless encampments in San Diego, Orange and Los Angeles counties, looking to provide free medical care to the pets of unhoused people. He comes ready with medicines, vaccines, syringes and treats, offering to see
