98% of pet owners consider their animals to be companions or members of their family. Animals have a positive impact on mental and physical health. Trauma survivors can experience high levels of stress and anxiety and their animals friends and family members can help calm and soothe them.

Deciding to leave an abusive relationship is difficult for many reasons. One factor that can complicate leaving is a victim’s concern for a pet or animal companion that cannot be left behind. Knowing there is a safe place where pets can be temporarily cared for can help ease the transition out of an abusive relationship in addition to assisting in the healing process for survivors of crime and trauma. The Pets, Too! program provides a safe place for a victim’s pet while they are transitioning.

Pets, Too! allows individuals who are victims of domestic violence to temporarily place their animals in a free and local safe haven. Animals are housed away from harm in a safe, and secure Pets, Too! participating shelter. Pets, Too! is not a termination of ownership but a temporary solution. A victim must complete an intake form with Victim Witness Services.