Having housing issues? Here’s how to make sure your pet stays safe

HOUSTON, Texas – As shelters nationwide deal with higher intakes and lower adoption rates, a common denominator among pet owners is emerging.

“Moving” is one of the most frequent reasons people give for surrendering or abandoning their pets.

Whether someone is facing eviction, escaping domestic violence, or moving to a new home, a changing housing situation doesn’t have to mean your pet suffers.

• SEE ALSO: Man admits shooting three dogs while being evicted from NE Harris County home he shared with ex-girlfriend

If you are leaving a violent home situation in search of safety, you may not have to leave your pet behind. There are several local and national programs available to help make sure your pet is well cared for.

• Houston PetSet Pet Protect Program will take vulnerable pets to safety 24/7. Cats or dogs can receive free boarding for up to 30 days, giving owners some time to sort out their new housing situation. A shelter representative must make the request on behalf of the client.
• Houston SPCA PetSafe Program provides emergency boarding of pets for families living in family violence shelters.
• Transitional Pet Fostering is a local Facebook group that helps residents experiencing a short-term emergency (such as fleeing domestic violence, experiencing temporary homelessness or going into a short hospital stay) locate a temporary foster. It is recommended that owners carefully screen fosters and get a foster agreement in writing before the pet moves.

For those experiencing homelessness or facing eviction, there are several programs to help pets remain cared for.

• Laurel’s House can provide free or low-cost veterinary care to pets in need in the Greater Houston area.
• FACE Foundation provides financial support to people experiencing homelessness, low-income families, senior citizens, veterans, military families, students, disabled individuals and hard-working families who have exhausted all other options and are at risk for losing their pets.
• Pets of the Homeless offers pet food and emergency veterinary care for pet families experiencing homelessness.

For more resources or to learn more about adopting a pet in need, click here.