Domestic violence survivor says Thank You for helping her and her dog, Zeke

Of the many dangers pets face in violent homes, veterinary neglect is a common yet rarely highlighted reality. Abusers often maintain strict control over the household budget and won’t allow their victims to spend money on either routine or emergency veterinary care. As a result, many of the animals we help to board through our Safe Escape grant program are in need of veterinary care. If the care is routine, the client can typically take care of it once they’re back on their feet, but in some cases, the animals are suffering from long-term neglect or intentional injury and need immediate veterinary care.

One such application came to us on behalf of a domestic violence survivor named Mary* for her dog Zeke. The domestic violence shelter that Mary found is one of the few across the country that allows co-sheltering for people and their pets. Unfortunately, they do not have the funding to help with the cost of veterinary care. An online search led Mary’s shelter advocate to the RedRover Safe Escape grant.

Zeke was suffering from dental neglect: His mouth was very infected, and he desperately needed dental care. The RedRover Safe Escape grant was able to cover the cost of Zeke’s veterinary care so that both he and Mary could be happy and healthy together.

After Zeke’s visit tot he vet, RedRover received this update from Mary: “They did a fantastic job on his teeth. His teeth were so rotten, it was truly heartbreaking not being able to afford this procedure. My dog’s behavior has changed now that he’s pain-free and no longer has smelly breath. Life is so good for him now!”

Mary’s shelter advocate also sent RedRover a Thank You card, saying, “You have given both client & pet much relief. We are so happy you helped. I am still amazed that you are out there doing this service for people and animals in need.”

*Name changed to protect identity

You can help protect pets and people from domestic violence: RedRover.org/DonateDV