The Alle-Kiski Area HOPE Center focuses on helping victims of domestic violence. In November of 2012, we started a new program called HOPE for SAF-T, which is part of a current national program called Sheltering Animals and Families Together (SAF-T). This program assists victims of domestic violence with bringing their pets (dogs and cats) with them when they leave an abusive situation and come into our emergency shelter.
Research shows that pets are often targets of abuse in the home and are also a pawning tool. There are often times when victims don’t leave the abusive situation due to not being able to bring their pets along. This SAF-T program provides a safe place for victims to go with their animals. This then ensures that both the victim of domestic violence and their pet are safe. Our goal is to enhance the safety for victims and their pets by leaving their abusive situation as early as possible.
To date, we have had 2 dogs and 1 cat that were accepted into the program and were able to remain safe and with their owner. We look forward to many more success stories like these!
For more information on the SAF-T program, visit www.animalsandfamilies.org
Even though these two particular pooches have faces only a mother could love, it pains me to know there are people who abuse these defenseless animals.
This is such a great program and a great addition to your services. Bravo.
I agree, Craig! It is hard to imagine – but so very true. The domestic violence-related homicide that occurred this past week in Murrysville – the offender lured the victims to the location, by stating that a beloved dog had been hit by a car.
Spread the word – so that we can assist in creating safety for the WHOLE family.