SafePet Ontario provides pet-safekeeping for those fleeing family violence and human trafficking. We also provide education on "the link" among intimate partner violence, child abuse, elder abuse, and animal abuse.

Research shows that 47% of survivors will delay leaving their abuser, or not leave at all, if they cannot take their pet with them to safety.¹ Most shelters do not accept pets, and survivors are forced to make a terrible choice: Leave the situation and leave behind their beloved pet with the abuser -- or stay. 

​We bridge a significant gap in the gender-based violence sector by offering carefully chosen pet-safekeeping service to survivors. This allows survivors of family violence and human trafficking to leave their abuser, and access supports and safe housing sooner. Since 2017, we have supported over 1,400 clients across Ontario escape harmful and dangerous situations. 

​At SafePet Ontario, we understand that pets are family. Those of us working to end gender-based violence must take the human-animal bond seriously if we are to "fight" this crisis in a meaningful, comprehensive, and sustainable way. Pets provide emotional support and unconditional love, and this is a bond that most survivors are not willing to break-- even if it means they must stay in a dangerous situation. SafePet is the only organization doing this work across Ontario and, therefore, the need is overwhelming. 

We are very appreciative of our incredibly committed volunteer foster families, transport and administrative volunteers, and our generous donors. Donations help us provide fosters with pet food and supplies, vet care. Donations also go towards staffing the complex logistics of helping someone flee a violent situation with pets and ensuring safe transport of pets to foster homes. 

_{1. Dr. Amy Fitzgerald, "The Intersection of Animal Maltreatment and Intimate Partner Violence in Canada: Findings from Recent and Ongoing Research." University of Windsor.}