Grants to Help Pet Owners Who Are Victims of Domestic Violence

For many survivors of domestic violence, the decision to leave can be complicated by the need to protect their pets. Too often, individuals stay in dangerous situations because they cannot bring their animals with them. Fortunately, several organizations offer grants to help shelters, rescues, and domestic violence programs create safe spaces for both people and their companion animals.

Below are current opportunities that provide financial support for housing, veterinary care, and emergency resources.

Pet Owner Grant Options

American Humane: Second Chance Grants: American Humane’s Second Chance Grants provide financial assistance to shelters and rescue groups to help cover the costs of rescuing animals who are homeless or victims of cruelty. Funding is awarded on a case-by-case basis, and applications can be completed online.

Greater Good Charities: Rescue Rebuild: Greater Good Charities’ Rescue Rebuild program helps shelters and housing facilities become pet-friendly for individuals escaping domestic violence or seeking transitional housing. The Rescue Rebuild team travels to selected shelters and completes renovation projects lasting one to two weeks. There is no cost to the shelter. Greater Good Charities covers all project expenses, including materials, travel, and lodging.

American Kennel Club (AKC) Humane Fund: The AKC Humane Fund offers Women’s Shelter Grants to organizations that provide housing for domestic violence survivors and their pets. These grants also support animal shelters that partner with domestic violence shelters to provide temporary or permanent care for pets. Applications can be submitted online. Visit the AKC Humane Fund website to learn more.

RedRover Relief Safe Escape Grant: The RedRover Relief Safe Escape program helps survivors of domestic violence find safety with their pets by providing financial assistance for temporary pet boarding. Applications must be submitted by a domestic violence advocate on behalf of the survivor.

RedRover Safe Housing Grants: RedRover’s Safe Housing grants award up to $60,000 to nonprofit domestic violence and animal organizations across the United States. Funds may be used to build or renovate on-site pet housing, start a foster program, or cover temporary boarding costs for pets of survivors. Grants can also help pay for routine or emergency veterinary care. Applications are accepted online.

Final Thoughts

These grant programs play a crucial role in helping survivors of domestic violence stay connected with their pets through times of crisis. Whether through building pet-friendly shelters, providing boarding support, or funding veterinary care, each opportunity helps protect the bond between people and the animals they love.

For more guidance on identifying and applying for these grants, contact Nicole Sandler, Grants Advisor for Who Will Let the Dogs Out, at nicole@wwldo.org.

Together, we can make sure no one has to choose between their safety and their pets.