There are many reasons women stay with abusive partners, and oftentimes it is because their abuser has threatened to harm or kill the family pet, and used this threat as leverage to trap women in these relationships. Nearly 90% of domestic violence survivors in shelters across Canada had their pet brutalized or killed by an abusive partner. 
Those who have pets know that the loss of the pet can often feel like the loss of a family member. Sadly, due to resource constraints, women’s shelters are unable to provide shelter to pets.
That’s why Ernestine’s SafePet program helps women temporarily re-home their pets so that they are able to access safety and heal from trauma without having to worry about their beloved pets being harmed or killed. We partnered with Link Toronto to help find safe and temporary homes for the families who turn to Ernestine’s. By addressing the need for their pets’ safety, women are able to make the best choices for themselves and their children.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, and are worried about the safety of your pet, click here to learn more about safety planning for you and your pet.