In fact, Starr said, “The Safe Pet Shelter Program is not something new that was created in response to COVID-19; it is a resource and a partnership that we have had for nearly two decades.”

Starr also added that YWCA Dayton is also partners with SICSA, the Animal Resource Center and several area veterinarians to help provide shelter for pets while their owners are in the domestic violence shelters.

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Officials from both the Artemis Center and the YWCA Dayton praised the program for helping people and pets escape domestic violence while also allowing victims of violence to focus on their health and safety without worrying about their pet.

In a statement, YWCA Dayton Clinical Director Michelle Sayer said, “We know that there are survivors of domestic violence that stay in abusive situations, fearful of the abuse their pet would endure if left behind. The Safe Pet Shelter Program allows survivors to find safety for them and the pets they care about like family, and knowing they can be reunited in the future gives them hope.”

“We stand together in the belief that abuse of any kind is not welcome in our community.” Weltge said.