Purple Paw-Helps Domestic Violence Victims & Pets

There should be no obstacles to escape, invisible or otherwise.  Leave now! the body and mind shout but it’s not always that easy. Where will we go?  How will we get there?  What will I do with my pets?  And what comes next........

Each family the Purple Paw Project serves comes with new challenges.  We evolve and add the necessary steps to make transition to a safe and stable life as smooth as possible.  One new area of support that was brought to our attention recently was not transport to OUR facility but to the victim’s extended family. 

After 2 months, a woman and her children were leaving to begin a new life in another state.  Her pets had received vaccines and wellness exams while staying with us. Well fed and happy, the dogs were eager to be permanently reunited their family. The people could travel by bus but sadly the pets could not. FOAU quickly scrambled to find transport as we received word that the abuser had located the victim and was moving in to find them and the pets.  Travel was arranged within 36 hours and the pets were sent safely on their way just as the abuser closed in.  The family had left 12 hours prior and were safely out of the state.  With the police notified after I received physical threats, we refused to give any information regarding whereabouts or status.  Through contact with a caseworker, we know everyone arrived the destination and is settling in safely.  

Protection comes in many forms. It may be a place to stay, a warm bed, medical care for wounds both old
and new.  It may also be standing up and saying “ this ends now and it ends here.” The Purple Paw Project returns what has been stolen; a sense of safety, a feeling of control, hope. 

Lisa Allison
Executive Director, Friends of Animals Utah