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.

Lauren got attached to Kizzy the pit bull long before Kizzy became a part of Lauren’s family. Kizzy originally belonged to Lauren’s neighbor, who didn't take very good care of her. Five months earlier, Kizzy had escaped from her neighbor’s yard and was hit by a car, but Kizzy never received treatment. After months of pleading, Lauren finally convinced her neighbor to allow her to adopt Kizzy, and the first thing she did was take her to the vet.

Shelly welcomed Tyson into her family’s home last spring, only a few months after their beloved mastiff had passed away from old age. Shelly knew Tyson was meant to be a member of their family and he instantly bonded with their other dog.