The nonprofit and animal hospital have partnered to provide the program, called Pet Protect, by offering a survivor the ability to board their animal at a safe location at any time of the day, per the announcement.
“Since the stay-home, work-safe order was enacted, we’ve seen an increase in reports of domestic violence,” said Tama Lundquist, co-president of Houston PetSet, which focuses on raising awareness and funds for animal welfare-related nonprofits in the Greater Houston area. “Unfortunately, we know that oftentimes, an abuser will use a pet as leverage to keep their victim in the home. We hope that by launching the Pet Protect program, survivors will have peace of mind knowing that they can safely escape with their pet, and their companion will be cared for until the survivor can make their next transition in life.”
Westbury Animal Hospital will provide boarding for pets of domestic violence survivors Monday-Friday from 5 p.m.-8 p.m., while Houston Dog Ranch, located at 9602 Dalecrest Drive, Houston, will provide shelter Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., according to the announcement. In addition, pets at Houston Dog Ranch will receive behavioral assessments, training and play group experiences as appropriate.
Houston PetSet has launched the Pet Protect program as a pilot program at no charge for 30 days, according to the announcement. 713-723-3666. www.westburyvets.com
