Springhaven Inc. Assistant Director Shonna Sheckles says the organization’s partnership with Friends of Hardin County Animal Shelter over the past year has provided peace of mind for domestic violence survivors as they are faced with a difficult choice.
“Our survivors, when they come to us, they have pets, and a lot of people look at their pets as their children and they don’t want to leave, but due to our partnership with FOHCAS, now people are able to know that they can bring their pets and their pets be safe and they be safe as well,” Sheckles said.
Sheckles says 13 survivors with a total of 24 pets were able to leave their abusers and get their animals out of dangerous situations in 2024 through the partnership.
“FOHCAS is able to board the animals while the survivor is at the shelter,” Sheckles said. “The pet owner can have visitation with their pet, so it’s not like you’re handing your pet off to a stranger.”
FOHCAS is able to get the pets up to date on their shots while under their care. Springhaven is able to offer services to survivors without fear of financial burden.
“There is no cost for anyone to come to Springhaven,and there is no cost for anyone that has a pet for FOHCAS to board and take care of their pet during the time that they’re at the shelter,” Sheckles said.
The partnership is limited to cats and dogs. Organizations and individuals can support the program financially by visiting www.fohcas.org.
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