Additional Resources
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 this training guide from Don't Forget the Pets (PDF).
Another useful resource to consider for your community is BestyBnB. The BestyBnB web-based platform enables domestic violence agencies to search and secure long and short-term pet boarding options for survivors’ pets during their time of crisis.
In addition to providing a platform for domestic violence agencies, BestyBnB can be used by animal welfare organizations, social service organizations, and companion animal caregivers to create a better community for pets and people. Learn more at BestyBnB.com.
How can I get involved as an individual?
Use the Safe Havens for Pets database to search for safe havens in your community to find ways to support your local safe haven.
You may also consider becoming a caregiver with BestyBnB, a web-based platform that enables domestic violence agencies to search and secure long and short-term pet boarding options for survivors’ pets during their time of crisis. Before being approved by BestyBnB, each prospective caregiver must submit a detailed application, which includes safety and other training via proprietary videos, and undergo a comprehensive background check.
To learn more about becoming a BestyBnb Pet Caregiver Foster Home in your community, visit www.bestybnb.com.
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. You can also reach us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Your help is integral in maintaining the Safe Havens for pets directory.
Can I include my pet(s) in a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO)?
Yes. Thirty-six 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. Learn more here.
Additional information
- Children and Animals At Risk: Guidelines for Human Service Personnel
- Including Pets in Protection Orders: A State-by-State Guide
- Safety Planning for Pets of Domestic Violence Survivors
Publications and Past Presentations
If you are interested in the Safe Havens for Pets team speaking at your event, please contact safehavens@awionline.org.
- Presentation Recording: Components of a Successful National Directory of Safe Havens - Humane Canada
- Presentation: The Link Between Domestic Violence and Pet Abuse: A look at research, policies and programs (PDF)
- Report: Identifying the Needs of DV Shelters that Provide Services to Survivors with Pets
- Video: Calming Tunes to Soothe Pets and Their Humans
Recent News
- World Animal News (October 27, 2021): Exclusive on Animal Welfare Institute's National Directory That Includes 1,200 'Safe Havens' for Domestic Abuse Victims & Their Pets
- Newsbreak (October 25, 2021): Colorado-based domestic violence shelter houses survivors — and their pets
- High Heels and Heartache Podcast (May 10, 2021): How Does Safe Havens For Pets Serve Survivors of Domestic Violence and Their Pets?
