About Pets & Domestic Violence
Pets are often the first target for an abuser and are commonly used as a tool for control and manipulation. Helping survivors keep their pets safe keeps survivors safe as well!
75% of female survivors who own pets have had their pets threatened by their abusive partner and nearly half of victims choose to stay with their abusers rather than leave their pets behind. 52% of survivors in shelters were forced to leave their pets behind, and nearly 25% of survivors who leave will return due to threats made against their pets.
Project Safe became one of the first shelters in Georgia to offer a dedicated pet space. We work with rescues and other organizations to find foster homes for survivors’ pets and provide quality veterinary care and feeding for pets in our programs. We believe that no one should have to choose between their pet’s safety and their own.
In 2024, Project Safe renovated both the indoor and outdoor areas of our emergency shelter to be more accommodating to pets. The outdoor area features climate controlled kennels with access to outdoor areas for when dogs need to be left at shelter and a turf play and potty area. The interior received new flooring and fixtures that are more pet-friendly and durable, ensuring that survivors can stay with their beloved pets comfortably and safely in the shelter.
For survivors who need fostering and other pet services, Project Safe partners with Vets for Pets & People to locate foster homes and provide necessary medical services for survivors’ companions.
