Saving Lives at Both Ends of the Leash

Wings of Hope Family Crisis Services has officially opened its onsite pet kennel, a project driven by a growing need to support survivors of domestic violence who are reluctant to leave their pets behind in abusive situations.

The idea took shape during the organization’s 2022 staff retreat, where the team discussed a growing concern:  survivors were calling the crisis line but hesitating to come into shelter because they didn’t want to leave their pets in harm’s way. It was clear this was a barrier to safety, and the staff were committed to finding a way to help. 

“Pets are family, and for many survivors, leaving them behind simply isn’t an option,” said Brandi White, Executive Director of Wings of Hope. “We knew we had to create a space where survivors and their animals could heal together.”

Research from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence highlights the urgency of the issue:

• 71% of women in domestic violence shelters report their abuser threatened or harmed a pet as a method of control.
• Half of all survivors with pets delay leaving a dangerous situation because they cannot take their animals with them.
• An estimated 1 million animals are abused each year in connection with domestic violence.

Wings of Hope pitched the kennel project to Stillwater Makes a Change (SMAC), a student-led philanthropic initiative at Stillwater High School, and was chosen as the 2023–2024 beneficiary. Students rallied the community and raised the funds necessary to bring the vision to life. To supplement this effort, Wings of Hope applied for and received a matching grant from RedRover, as well as Purina’s Purple Leash Project. 

“Survivors often delay leaving an abuser if they cannot find a safe haven for themselves and their pet, leaving them both at risk,” said Katie Campbell, President & CEO of RedRover. “We're proud that RedRover + Purina’s Purple Leash Project grant can help Wings of Hope welcome survivors' beloved pets to the shelter for the first time, saving lives at both ends of the leash.”

The kennel, built by Garrett Leming of Simple Living Designs, gives pets a safe, comfortable place to stay, with indoor and outdoor space for dogs and a separate area for cats.

To protect the confidentiality of residents, the ribbon-cutting ceremony was held privately with participation from staff, board members, and representatives from the Coordinated Community Response Team.

Wings of Hope’s new kennel stands as a testament to what is possible when a community comes together to eliminate barriers to safety. Survivors and their pets now have a place to heal—together.