More families need safe shelter for pets to escape violence.
This article was produced by Pet Refuge and is being published by the New Zealand Herald as advertorial.
Demand for Pet Refuge’s service has risen sharply, with the charity helping 121 families escape family violence with their pets in 2025 – a 19% increase on the previous year – as growing numbers of families are unable to leave abuse without knowing their pets will be safe.
Since opening less than five years ago, Pet Refuge has provided more than 74,290 safe bed nights for pets while their families are in refuge or emergency housing. On average, pets stay in Pet Refuge’s purpose-built shelter for around four months.
Founder and CEO Julie Chapman says concern for pet safety remains a significant barrier for families trying to leave violence, and 2026 is already shaping up to be another year of rising demand.
“This isn’t about people being reluctant to leave their pets behind. It’s about what happens to those pets if they do,” she says.
“Research shows more than half of victims have delayed leaving violent situations because they were afraid for their pet’s safety. This is something we see constantly – families often won’t leave until they know their pet has somewhere safe to go.
“We are working with families who will do anything to protect their pets from harm. In one case last year, a woman and her teenage son lived in their car for 100 days with their dog, only entering refuge once we had him safe at our shelter.”
Chapman says pets being harmed in family violence situations is more common than many people realise, and providing safety for pets can be critical to helping families leave sooner.
“Over the past year we have seen some serious instances of violence against pets, and it is clear why victims won’t leave their pets behind with their abuser – it puts their lives in danger.
“We know pets can be the reason someone stays, but they can also be the reason someone is able to leave. Providing safety for pets can be a critical intervention point that allows families to leave before violence escalates further.”
As Pet Refuge commences its March Appeal, the charity has this week reached the milestone of supporting more than 500 families, and over 875 pets, to escape violence and reach safety.
Chapman says the increase reflects the growing need for the service.
“Reaching 500 families in less than five years is significant, and it shows how many people are faced with choosing between their own safety and their pet’s. For those families, having somewhere safe for their pet can make all the difference.
“Demand is continuing to grow, and 2026 is already tracking in the same direction. A gift of just $30 a month can help provide safe shelter, care and a future free from violence for these pets and their families. Without public support, we can’t help every family who needs us.”
Pet Refuge provides temporary shelter, transport, veterinary treatment and rehabilitation for pets affected by family violence while their families secure safe housing.
Pet Refuge’s March Appeal is now underway, raising funds to help meet the growing demand for the service.
To donate or become a regular giver, visit www.petrefuge.org.nz.