Purple Paw-Helps Domestic Violence Victims & Pets

Some would argue that as far as ferrets go, Stinker wasn’t stinky at all. Truth is he really was until we bathed him! This little fellow was an accredited therapy pet for a 4-year-old boy who was suffering from trauma caused by domestic abuse.

Stinker’s mom, a victim of domestic abuse, made a very difficult decision to place him in Friends of Animals Utah's care when she went into a DV shelter that could not accomodate this pet. The moment of separation was heart wrenching and very scary for all involved. We were concerned about the little boy’s reaction. Thankfully, the shelter advocates and the FOAU representative were able to convey to the little boy that Stinker was going to happy, safe and very loved. This was just temporary we assured him.

Unfortunately circumstances changed and Stinker’s family had to evacuate under police protection to a new out of state shelter. The journey would be long and difficult for a the mom and her kids. She made the ultimate decision to relinquish Stinker to us and allow us to find him a forever loving new home, which we successfully quickly did. Yes, it is somewhat a sad ending since we always anticipate happy reunions.

We were subsequently informed that the little boy is doing well and in a much better place and has been able to replace the love he had for Stinker with another little pet. FOAU’s mission is not to guarantee happy endings; we provide the families of domestic abuse with the ability to escape their circumstance. We offer them the time they need to review their options. We provide them with the peace of mind to make the decisions that is right for them. And we fully support their decision whatever that may be.