Additional Resources
Funding for safe haven pet programs
AWI has been able to identify a limited number of funding sources for individuals who need a safe place for their companion animals, or for groups interested in providing a safe haven pet program in their area. There may be other sources of funding not listed here; if so, please contact AWI at safehavens@awionline.org so we can add that information to our list.
- American Kennel Club Humane Fund (general)
- Veterinary Care Foundation (for vets only)
- Veterinary Care Charitable Fund (for vets only)
- Red Rover (general). Two types of grants: (1) to cover temporary boarding and/or veterinary care costs to enable an individual to remove pets to safety, and (2) to cover start-up costs for a domestic violence shelter seeking to house pets on-site.
How can my community start one?
The manner in which safe havens for pets develop depends upon the capacity and best thinking of the local community. For a comprehensive review of how to start a safe haven for pets, please see
- Safe Havens for Pets: Guidelines for Programs Sheltering Pets for Women Who Are Battered, by Frank R. Ascione (2000)
- Sheltering Animals & Families Together SAF-T Program Start-Up Manual, by Allie Phillips (2012)
Submit a Safe Haven
Please join our efforts to provide an accurate directory of safe havens for pets. If you notice that we omitted a program that should be in our registry, or if you spot an error in any of the listings, contact AWI at safehavens@awionline.org and provide as much information as you can. Your help is integral in maintaining the Safe Havens Mapping Project.
Can I include my pet(s) in a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO)?
Yes. Thirty-five states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico have laws to ensure that victims of domestic violence can include their pets in restraining orders. Even if your state does not have a specific provision, most state TROs contain language that gives courts discretion to permit additional orders. For example, a court can order that pets be included in a TRO, as they do for the temporary care of children or possession of property. Conditions bonds also can include pets. A TRO can authorize law enforcement to assist with the removal of a pet from the home.
Additional information
