Ion Center Pet Protection Program

The Ion Center for Violence Prevention Pet Protection Program proposes to increase the number of Companion Animals sheltered each year. The purpose is to provide a safe shelter space for both humans and pets who are fleeing domestic violence and provide education to the community about the co-occurrence of domestic violence and animal abuse. Project activities include adding a full time Pet Advocate to provide on-site care to companion animals staying in our kennel, increasing volunteer foster homes for pet care space, developing curriculum for community education about the co-occurrence of domestic violence and animal abuse, and providing 4 community trainings. Expected outcomes include increased number of pets and domestic violence victims who are provided emergency shelter while fleeing and increased community knowledge about the link between animal abuse and domestic violence. Supporting partners on this project will provide pet medical care (injury evaluation, vaccines, spay/neuter), emergency boarding, and supplies.