When Safety Means Leaving… But You Have a Pet

Only about 20% of domestic violence shelters allow pets. That means many victims stay longer than they should—not because they don’t want safety, but because they refuse to abandon the one living being that has loved them unconditionally.

Let me be clear: you should never stay in a domestic violence or relationship terrorism situation because of a pet. Your life—and your children’s lives—matter. But I also understand this is not a simple decision. It’s emotional. It’s complicated. And it requires courage on multiple levels.

If you’re planning to leave and don’t know what to do with your pet, here are options to consider:

• Call local pet sitting or rescue organizations and ask about temporary foster care.

• Contact nearby animal shelters—some offer short-term emergency boarding for victims.

• Reach out to organizations like Purina’s initiatives that support pet-inclusive domestic violence programs.

• Ask a trusted friend or family member to care for your pet while you’re in transition.

• Check with animal trainers—many will board pets short-term in urgent situations.

• Look specifically for domestic violence shelters that accept animals.

You are not without options—even if it feels that way.

Advocacy starts with your voice. Speak up for your safety. Speak up for your children. And yes, speak up for your pet. There are people and resources in your community who will step in—but sometimes you have to ask.

Leaving is one of the hardest decisions you will ever make. But staying in danger is not the solution.

You and your life matter. Protect it.

— Dr. Kathie Mathis, Psy.D

Dr. Kathie Mathis, Psy.D, DD, NCP#00775, CAMS-V, CBIF, CDVC, CDAC, CSOC, CCAC, CCAI, CLC, CSTC, CSAC, CPI;

CEO California Behavioral Institute; Presidential and FBI award recipient; author; Master Trainer; Activist/Advocate; court expert-testimony; expert in Domestic Violence perpetrators and victims; child abuse; Human trafficking; Podcaster; Trauma Specialist; TV consultant; Judicial trainer/consultant; co-Founder California Assoc. of Anger Management Providers; National Training Director NWCAVE

pronouns: she, her, hers

When Safety Means Leaving… But You Have a Pet