56% of Women will delay leaving an abusive relationship because of a pet
(The Conversation: People in abusive relationships face many barriers to leaving – pets should not be one)
While most domestic violence shelters aren’t able to accommodate pets, there are some organizations that may be able to care for pets temporarily while their owner is leaving violent situations or moving to a domestic violence shelter. Each of the following options are based on capacity and have some eligibility requirements. They may be able to provide vet care free of charge. For more information, please contact the organizations below.
You can also view or download a flyer about these programs here.
Peterborough Humane Society: ‘Safe Nights for Pets Program’
Program Serves: Owners leaving a violent situation
Length of Stay: Up to 21 days
Website: https://peterboroughhumanesociety.ca
Phone: 705-745-4722 ext 200
SafePet Ontario
Program Serves: Owners leaving violent home or human trafficking situations
Length of Stay: Pets can be fostered up to a year
Website: https://www.safepet.ca
Email: info@safepet.ca
Lakefield Animal Welfare Society: ‘Safe Pet Program’
Program Serves: Owners in emergency situations i.e. domestic violence, homelessness etc.
Length of Stay: Two to three weeks
Website: https://www.lakefieldanimalwelfare.org
Phone: 705-652-0588