Sacramento, CA (January 8, 2014) – RedRover, a California-based nonprofit organization, has launched a new website dedicated to finding resources for victims of domestic violence and their pets.
SafePlaceforPets.org provides local and national resources to help families safely escape abusive situations with their pets. In partnership with Sheltering Animals & Families Together (SAF-T) and the National Link Coalition, SafePlaceforPets.org’s powerful, one-stop search directory makes it easy for victims and shelter advocates to locate existing pet support programs.
“Sadly, many domestic violence victims stay in abusive homes because they are afraid to leave their family pets,” said Nicole Forsyth, RedRover President and CEO. “Their pets are often also victims of abuse, suffering from injuries and neglect. We believe SafePlaceforPets.org can protect domestic violence victims, as well as their beloved companions.”
According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, more than 70 percent of pet-owning women entering domestic violence shelters reported that their batterer had injured, killed or threatened family pets for revenge or psychological control. As many as 65 percent of domestic violence victims are unable to escape their abusers because they fear what will happen to their pets when they leave.
A $15,000 donation by the Whitton-Spector Foundation in memory of Marion Dougherty helped launch this new website. Dougherty was a legendary Hollywood casting director and victim of domestic abuse who made the difficult decision to leave her own pets behind in order to escape her abuser. “We are grateful for such a generous donation and humbled by Marion’s lifework and challenges. By creating this website, we hope to find new solutions for families with pets so they can live free from abuse,” said Forsyth.
About RedRover
Founded in 1987, the mission of RedRover is to bring animals out of crisis and strengthen the bond between people and animals through emergency sheltering, disaster relief services, financial assistance and education. RedRover accomplishes its mission by engaging volunteers and supporters, collaborating with others and maximizing the use of online technology. Learn more at RedRover.org.
Media contact
Leili Khalessi
Marketing and Communications Manager
lkhalessi@RedRover.org
916.429.2457 ext. 314
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