A Nationwide Effort to help
Domestic Violence Shelters
become Pet-Friendly
Article by Purina and RedRover
(BPT) - An estimated 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men will experience some form of domestic abuse in their lifetime. Escaping abusive situations and starting over in a new and safe environment is an overwhelming experience for victims, especially when pets are involved. An added challenge is that few (approximately 10 percent) domestic violence shelters in the U.S. accept and house pets. This leaves abuse victims with a difficult decision - flee to safety but leave their pet behind or stay with their abuser?
Almost half of domestic violence victims choose to stay in an abusive situation out of fear of what might happen to their pet if they leave. Pets provide unconditional love and comfort, demonstrate loyalty and
devotion, and teach people about care and compassion. Pets can also sense when their owners experience sadness or pain, and their presence can provide comfort and promote healing.
That's why Purina has partnered with RedRover, a national nonprofit organization that helps people and animals in crisis situations, to create the Purple Leash Project. The Purple Leash Project not only raises awareness about this issue, but the program also helps provide funding and resources necessary to help more domestic violence shelters become safe, healing spaces for pets and people.
As part of the initiative, the business is committing more than $500,000 to