Imagine a world where nobody is forced to endure abuse because they can’t bring their entire family. The Purple Leash Project is working to create safe havens for survivors of domestic abuse and their beloved pets.

The Purple Leash Project was born with a dual mission: to unite and support both pets and people, guiding them from crisis to a place of care.

Making a Difficult Decision

Startling statistics reveal that about one in three women and one in four men face domestic abuse. Shockingly, only seventeen percent of domestic violence shelters admit pets. Moreover, over 70 percent of women in such shelters admit that their abusers threatened, harmed, or even killed their pets to control them. Consequently, almost half (48 percent) of survivors of domestic abuse hesitate to leave their abusers because they can’t take their pets with them.

Birth of the Purple Leash Project

Nearly ten years ago, a concerned Purina employee came across the heart-wrenching predicament that many survivors of abuse face – the difficult choice between remaining with an abuser or leaving a beloved pet behind. The unfairness of disregarding the pets, who often offer the sole solace and unwavering support to survivors, struck a chord. This marked the inception of their resolve to assist.

In the years that followed, Purina and Red Rover worked hand in hand with one of the largest domestic violence shelters in the United States. Their collaboration transformed the shelter into a leading advocate and role model for providing pet-friendly accommodations. Their efforts extended to establishing the PAWS Act Coalition, which backs the Pets and Women Safety (PAWS) Act. This legislation champions federal resources to aid domestic abuse survivors and their pets.

Today, their objective is clear: by the end of 2025, they aim to ensure that at least 25 percent of domestic violence shelters in the U.S. offer services that accommodate pets. They have already granted funds to 39 shelters nationwide, ensuring every state has at least one pet-friendly shelter. Their ultimate aspiration is to revolutionize the landscape of services for domestic violence survivors with pets, eliminating the choice between their safety and that of their animal companions.

If you want to learn more or learn how you can help, visit their website »

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