People escaping domestic violence face an uphill journey. Aside from their own safety, they also have to consider the safety of their dependents - loved ones for whom they may be caretakers, such as aging or disabled family members, children, and especially their pets, who are particularly vulnerable to abuse.

Amidst the devastating experiences that domestic violence survivors endure, their beloved pets often become forgotten victims or, worse, used as pawns to be manipulated by the abuser. While the focus is rightly placed on the safety and well-being of the human survivors, the welfare of their loyal animal companions cannot be overlooked.

More than 65% of domestic violence survivors say that one of the things that delayed them leaving a relationship was not having a safe solution for their pet. In a heartwarming and groundbreaking move, the Atlanta-based non-profit Pralines Backyard Foundation has taken on the much-needed role of covering pet care costs for domestic violence survivors while they find a safe space.

Their initiative goes beyond traditional support services, acknowledging the deep bond between humans and their pets and the importance of maintaining it, especially in times of crisis. 

Some victims can’t speak for themselves

70% of survivors of domestic violence have pets. Among those with pets, 48% to 71% indicate that their pets experience abuse or are killed. Perpetrators of abuse frequently exploit the connection between victims and their companion animals to exercise control, influence, and separate them from others.

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, only 12% of domestic violence shelters can accommodate pets. However, 65% of women entering these shelters report prior pet abuse and worry about their pets' welfare while seeking shelter.

Domestic violence survivors looking for permanent housing outside shelters face the challenge of finding pet-friendly accommodation, especially with breed restrictions, as they escape violent environments. Some end up living in their cars or on the streets while waiting for a solution that includes their pets.

Recognizing the scarcity of pet-friendly options in most domestic violence shelters, Orazie set out to change that. Her goal is to empower domestic violence survivors to leave their abusive situation, knowing that all members of their family have a soft place to land.

Praline’s Backyard Foundation provides free pet boarding or fostering for people fleeing domestic violence so that they can seek safety for the whole family. Through their growing network of boarding facilities and foster homes across the country, they help provide a temporary safe haven for pets during the transition into a new life for the whole family.

“By offering financial support for pet boarding, we equip survivors with the resources to make a life-changing decision. This service extends far beyond a temporary shelter; it provides survivors the agency to choose the boarding facility that resonates with them, amplifying their sense of control and reducing the stress of an already challenging situation. We firmly believe that by addressing the needs of both survivors and their pets, we create a harmonious healing process."

- Orazie Cook, Founder of Pralines Backyard Foundation.

The unseen impact

Pralines Backyard Foundation helps an average of 20-30 survivors per month, and 100% of their funding goes directly to families seeking help and fundraising. When asked about the impact of her work, Orazie shared, “One of the most touching stories of the year involved a survivor who had two children and two cats. In a time of desperate need, we were able to connect the survivor to a foster who provided a loving home for her cats and also designed a care package for them. For six months, the survivor was able to focus on rebuilding, healing, and the safety of themselves and their children, knowing their beloved cats were in the best hands.” 

The foundation's goal is to reach and educate 10 million followers to represent the 10 million domestic violence survivors in the US.

By creating a safety net for the pets of domestic violence survivors, Pralines Backyard Foundation is providing not only financial relief but also emotional support. This profound act of compassion recognizes the invaluable role that animals play in the healing process, offering solace and companionship during difficult times. The impact of this thoughtful act of love and healing is a liferaft in the midst of a storm, transforming the lives of survivors and their pets.

If you or someone you know needs help, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 and can help you create a safety plan for you and your pet. 

Pralines Backyard Foundation operates nationwide. Request assistance, become a foster, or donate here.

Ebony R is the founder of Atlanta Dog Mom, a community founded to bring together diverse dog moms to connect, learn, and encourage each other to be the best dog moms we can be. In real life, she enjoys deep-diving of various topics, studying veterinary nursing, and doing queer things in the streets of Atlanta with a small group of friends.