We have a wonderful pet shelter with state-of-the art kennels for dogs, cats, and other family pets. This program goes beyond protection and assists the pet owner in accessing community resources to help with the health, safety and well-being of their pet including vaccinations, spay/neuter, preventative health care examinations and medical care.

Did You Know?

• 98% of Americans consider pets to be companions or members of the family.
• 71% of pet-owning survivors reported that their batterer had injured, maimed, killed or threatened family pets for revenge or to psychologically control victims.
• Abusers kill, harm or threaten children’s pets to coerce them into sexual abuse or to force them to remain silent about abuse.
• Approximately 50% of survivors of domestic violence say they are unable to escape abusive situations because they worry about what will happen to their pets should they leave.

Pet Shelter History

In 2012, Rose Brooks Center became the first domestic violence shelter in the region to welcome four-legged family members.
The idea for this incredible project was born, when a woman called our hotline after her boyfriend had beaten her – almost to death. Immediately we found space for this young woman. There was one problem. She had a 110-pound Great Dane whom she refused to leave behind. The dog had saved her life by lying on top of her during the attack and taking the majority of the blows. As a result, he sustained many broken bones.

The giant Dane was the first animal to live at Rose Brooks Center, but he was only the first.

Today owners have 24/7 access to their pets within the safety of the shelter to walk, run, and play. Our pet advocate and pet volunteers offer enrichment activities and coordinate vet care for the animals to help make sure they are happy and healthy.

A Pet Safety Plan

If you’re creating a safety plan of your own to leave an abusive relationship, safety planning for your pets is important as well. To learn more about a safety plan that includes your pet(s), please visit HERE.

Paws Up to our Pet Partners