AWI Expands Directory to Help Unhoused People and Their Pets

Washington, DC—Today, Safe Havens for Pets, an initiative of the Animal Welfare Institute (AWI), launched an expanded online directory to include sheltering services that assist individuals who are experiencing homelessness with a pet.

The listings, which are searchable by zip code and updated regularly, feature organizations that either provide sheltering services for the animals of unhoused individuals and/or domestic violence survivors, have a relationship with an entity that does, or provide referrals to such facilities. They include humane societies, veterinary offices, foster homes, and shelters that house humans and pets together.

AWI established the Safe Havens for Pets database in 2011 to help domestic violence survivors with pets find sheltering resources for their companion animals while they seek safety for themselves. Since then, the directory has been accessed tens of thousands of times each year; it is also listed on the National Domestic Violence Hotline’s website.

The link between interpersonal violence and animal abuse has been well established; it is estimated that tens of thousands of companion animals are injured, traumatized, or killed each year due to domestic violence. 

This year, Safe Havens for Pets expanded to include more than 200 sheltering resources in all 50 states for unhoused individuals and their pets. The Safe Havens website also includes information on funding sources for shelters that wish to become more pet-friendly, safety planning tips for survivors with pets, and guidance on including companion animals in personal protection orders, among other resources.

“Domestic violence survivors and unhoused individuals with pets often face upheaval, uncertainty, and the unimaginable feeling of having to choose between safe shelter and their pet—a choice no person should have to make,” said Claire Coughlin, director of AWI’s Companion Animal Program. “AWI is proud to offer the most comprehensive directory of pet-friendly safe havens nationwide—totaling more than 1,200 entries—to help these individuals locate safe sheltering options, not only for themselves but also for their beloved companion animals.”

The number of people experiencing unsheltered homelessness in the United States is steadily increasing, reaching a record 256,610 in 2023, according to federal data. Some research also suggests that up 25% of unhoused individuals have companion animals, which can create an additional barrier to locating secure housing.

Among the safe haven models listed in the directory:

• Hale Mauliola on Oahu, HI, uses upcycled shipping containers, to provide temporary housing for up to 100 guests and their pets.
• The Alameda County, CA, Safe Parking Program offers secure parking for unhoused individuals living in their vehicles. The location welcomes pets and is equipped with essential amenities, including lighting, restrooms, and security patrols.
• Deep Roots, a homeless shelter in Earleville Maryland, recently became pet-friendly and provides apartments for up to 12 families with children at its Clairvaux Farm.

While the Safe Havens for Pets directory is comprehensive, it is not necessarily exhaustive—it is a work in progress that must be updated continually. You can help! If you are aware of a safe haven that should be included, please contact [email protected] or fill out the contact form here.