An Alabama animal shelter is launching a new program to assist victims of domestic violence with pets.
WBMA-TV reports that the Shelby Humane Society will officially open its Safe Pet program in 2018, but has already helped three families escaping domestic violence.
The shelter’s executive director, David Arias, says they’ve received guidance from the YWCA of Central Alabama and the Safe House organization and are working with local domestic violence organizations, with the goal of temporarily placing victims’ pets with foster families, boarding organization and veterinarians until families get re-established, as few women’s shelters accept animals. The pets will also receive medical care and food.
Arias says the programs empowers women to leave abusive relationships without leaving their pets.
Similar programs exist nationwide and internationally.
Republished with permission from the Associated Press.
