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Keeping Families Together: Emergency Pet Resources

At Helping Outside Animals, we know that for many of us, our pets aren’t just animals—they are family, our “babies,” and a vital source of comfort during life’s hardest moments. No one should ever have to choose between their own safety and the safety of their beloved pets. If you are currently facing a crisis, domestic violence situation, or sudden housing transition in Connecticut, please know that there are dedicated organizations ready to help protect your animals while you get back on your feet.

Below is a list of specialized Connecticut-based resources and emergency programs designed to provide temporary foster care, confidential sheltering, and financial assistance to help keep you and your pets together in the long run.

Emergency Pet Resources for Connecticut Residents in Crisis

If you are facing a life-altering emergency—such as domestic violence, sudden hospitalization, or a housing crisis—the following Connecticut-based organizations offer specialized support to keep your pets safe and ensure you can eventually be reunited.

1. Connecticut Humane Society: Safe and Sheltered Pets Program

This program provides temporary crisis foster care with the goal of returning pets to their owners once they have reached a stable situation.

  • What they offer: Temporary housing and all necessary supplies (food, beds, medical care) at no cost to the owner during the foster period.
  • Wilton Location: 863 Danbury Road, Wilton, CT 06897
  • Phone: 800-452-0114
  • Website: cthumane.org/crisis-foster

2. Companions-in-Crisis (CT Veterinary Medical Foundation)

Operating like a “witness protection program” for pets, this program provides confidential, secure shelter for animals while their owners seek safety.

  • How to Access: You must have a referral from a domestic violence agency, caseworker, or law enforcement. Ask your advocate to call the dedicated placement line.
  • Website: petsafetyct.org
  • Note: This program is specifically designed to partner with the CT Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV).

3. CT Safe Havens for Pets

A statewide and national network that helps survivors find a safe place for their pets so they can leave abusive situations without leaving their animals behind.

4. RedRover – Relief Safe Escape Grants

RedRover provides financial assistance for temporary boarding and veterinary care for survivors of domestic violence.

  • Website: redrover.org/relief
  • Focus: Financial grants to overcome the cost barriers of pet-friendly housing or emergency boarding.

5. Local Danbury Area Support

  • DAWS (Danbury Animal Welfare Society): Offers a foster program and can often provide community resources or advice for emergency situations.
    • Email: fosterinfo@daws.org
    • Website: daws.org
  • ROAR (Ridgefield Operation for Animal Rescue): Provides a Pet Food Pantry and a Community Outreach Fund to help owners facing financial hardships afford essential veterinary services.

Important Tip for Survivors

If you are working with a caseworker or advocate at a domestic violence shelter, please inform them specifically that you have pets. Many agencies have direct, confidential partnerships with veterinarians and rescues that are not advertised publicly for safety reasons. They can often trigger emergency funding and secure placement immediately.