Pet Safety Plan
1. Prepare Pet Documentation
Gather your pet’s essential documents:
Vaccination records and medical history.
Proof of ownership (e.g., adoption papers, photos of you with your pet).
Microchip information and registration details.
Pet licenses or certifications.
Keep these in the same secure location as your personal documents or store them digitally where only you can access them.
2. Secure Identification
Make sure your pet has up-to-date ID tags on their collar with your contact information (a phone number they can be reached at even after you leave is best).
If possible, update your pet’s microchip information with a new safe address and emergency contact. If you don’t have access to update it now, make a note to do so as soon as you’re in a secure place.
3. Find Pet-Friendly Shelters and Resources
Look for shelters that accept pets or offer fostering programs for domestic violence survivors. Some domestic violence support services partner with organizations that provide temporary care for pets.
Reach out to local animal shelters, veterinarians, or rescue groups for advice and resources.
Prepare a list of pet-friendly hotels if temporary accommodation is needed.
4. Build a Pet Emergency Kit
Prepare a portable kit with the essentials your pet will need, including:
A few days of food and water (portable bowls for each).
Any medications your pet requires.
Leashes, collars, or harnesses.
A comfortable blanket or bed.
Waste bags, litter, or other necessary hygiene supplies.
Favorite toys to reduce stress.
Copies of the pet documentation mentioned earlier.
Keep the kit in a safe, accessible place, ready to grab when you leave.
5. Make Temp Housing Arrangements
Identify a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor who could care for your pet temporarily.
Discuss the situation with discretion and agree upon a plan if you need their assistance.
6. Train for Calm Exits
If possible, practice putting pets in carriers or loading them into the car. This ensures they won’t panic during the escape.
Keep their carrier accessible and ready to use. For dogs, a leash should always be handy.
7. Create a Rescue Team
Build a small network of people who can help with your pet’s needs, whether it’s temporary care, transportation, or helping you find pet-friendly resources.
Provide them with your pet’s vital information and emergency contacts.
8. Protect Pets from Escalation
If you sense immediate danger:
Confine your pet to a secure room where they can’t be harmed (e.g., a bathroom or a place with a lock).
Create a temporary safe zone with food, water, and a comfortable space until you can safely retrieve them.
9. Leverage Professional Help
Reach out to animal welfare organizations offering foster programs for pets of domestic violence survivors.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline or similar services in your area may provide connections to resources that include pet safety.
Tips for After You’ve Left
Notify your veterinarian about your situation and update your pet’s information, including any restrictions on who can access their records.
Consider altering your pet’s microchip to "do not rehome" without notifying you.
Secure your new home to keep your pet safe (e.g., updated fencing, secured windows).