In cases of intimate partner violence, SPCA program finds a safe space for pets

The SPCA program known as Paws and Support is a vital resource that collaborates with other support agencies to provide temporary accommodations for pets belonging to individuals impacted by intimate partner violence. This program offers foster arrangements for pets while their owners are undergoing short-term in-hospital treatment or transitioning out of domestic violence relationships.

Heather Woodin, the SPCA’s chief of animal operations, emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of pets during times of crisis. She acknowledged that pets can sometimes be used as a means to manipulate individuals into staying in unsafe situations. Therefore, having a program like Paws and Support allows people fleeing from such situations to bring their pets with them to safety.

With incidents of gender-based violence on the rise, programs like Paws and Support become even more essential. Many women’s shelters do not allow pets, making it challenging for individuals to leave abusive situations without worrying about the well-being of their furry companions. Woodin highlighted that intimate partner violence victims are prioritized in the foster home list to ensure their pets are taken care of during times of need.

The program ensures that pets are placed in foster homes once they are medically cleared, with strict confidentiality measures in place to protect the identity of both the pet and the owner. Foster families undergo training and adhere to confidentiality rules to provide a safe and supportive environment for the pets.

Nicole McGowan, a SPCA worker in Dartmouth, shared her experience of fostering an animal through the program. She described the experience as rewarding, as it allowed her to care for an animal in need and provide a temporary home until they could be reunited with their owner in a safe environment.

The program operates solely on donations, covering all costs for the pet owners who utilize the service. Foster families receive support in the form of donations for items such as food and bedding, ensuring that the pets’ needs are met during their stay.

Overall, Paws and Support is a valuable initiative that not only safeguards the well-being of pets but also provides crucial support to individuals affected by intimate partner violence. By offering a safe haven for pets in times of crisis, this program plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and protection of both animals and their owners.