Pet Safekeeping Program

Did you know...

• 59% of abuse victims delay leaving out of concern for their animals.
• 36% of abuse victims with animals reported that their abuser threatened or harmed their animals. 85% of threats were carried out.
• 85% of victims with both children and animals reported that the children witnessed the threat or harm to the animals. In 50% of those cases, it was the child's own pet that was threatened or harmed.

A relationship with a pet may be the strongest connection a victim of intimate partner violence has. In abusive relationships, the abusive partner often targets pets. They may threaten to harm or kill a pet to exert power and maintain control over the victim. Emergency shelters are often unable to accommodate pets. Sometimes, victims delay leaving an abusive situation out of fear for what might happen to their animal.

You can help

Humane Services is looking for people to provide loving and caring foster homes for the pets of individuals leaving intimate partner violence.

If you feel you are able to foster a pet in need, complete the application. We will be in touch to set up a home visit and talk with you about what it means to foster an animal from an abusive home.

Are you a victim of intimate partner violence?

If you are staying in your home because you are worried about what might happen to your pet if you leave, the Pet Safekeeping program can help. Pet Safekeeping is a joint initiative of the City of St. John's, the Iris Kirby House and the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary.

Humane Services receives requests for emergency shelter from partner organizations. Individuals requesting temporary pet accommodations must be residents of St. John's.

Emergency Situations

• Contact the Intimate Partner Violence Unit of the RNC by calling 911.

Non-Emergency Assistance

• Royal Newfoundland Constabulary 709-729-8000
• Intimate Partner Violence Unit 709-729-8093
• Iris Kirby House 709-753-1492