How can my community start a safe haven for pets?
The manner in which safe havens for pets develop depends on the capacity and best thinking of the local community. For a comprehensive review of how to start a safe haven for pets, please consider the following:
- Don’t Forget the Pets Training Handbook: Powered by Greater Good Charities & RedRover, sponsored by PetSmart Charities
- Don’t Forget the Pets Coaching Program for one-on-one support when starting a pet housing program
- My Dog Is My Home for education, consultations, and training related to co-sheltering for people experiencing homelessness with a pet
- Safe Havens for Pets Guidelines
Another useful resource to consider for your community is BestyBnB. BestyBnB, a for-profit entity, operates a web-based platform that enables domestic violence agencies to search and secure long and short-term pet boarding options for survivors’ pets during their time of crisis. In addition to providing a platform for domestic violence agencies, BestyBnB can be used by animal welfare organizations, social service organizations, and companion animal caregivers to provide services for pet parents in need. Learn more at BestyBnB.com.
How can I get involved as an individual?
Use our Safe Havens for Pets database to search for safe havens in your community and find ways to support your local safe haven through donations, fostering, or by otherwise volunteering your time. Contact your local safe haven and inquire about their fundraising priorities and current volunteer needs. You may also consider becoming a caregiver with BestyBnB.
Submit a Safe Haven
Please join our efforts to provide an accurate Safe Havens for Pets directory. If you are aware of a safe haven for pets program that should be included, or if you spot an error in any of the listings, please contact AWI at safehavens@awionline.org and provide as much information as possible. You can also submit a safe haven using this form. Your help is integral in maintaining the directory. You can also reach us on Facebook, Instagram, or through our contact page.