RedRover Granted $404,311 for Pet-Friendly Shelters
Nine shelters received funding to help survivors and unhoused people keep their pets by their side.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Pets — General
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RedRover has awarded $404,311 in Safe Housing grants to nine animal and homeless shelters across the United States. This funding enables facilities to build pet-accommodating infrastructure, such as dog runs and climate-controlled areas, for survivors of domestic violence and people experiencing homelessness.
Why it matters
People facing homelessness and survivors of domestic violence are significantly more likely to accept help if they can keep their pets with them. Expanding these programs addresses a critical barrier to housing, as 50% of survivors would otherwise reject shelter if their pets were not welcome.
The grants support nine facilities, including TESSA and Peace Place, which received funding through the Purple Leash Project. With 25% of unhoused individuals estimated to own pets, this investment helps shelters meet a critical need for safe accommodation.
The players
RedRover
A national nonprofit that provides crisis assistance and resources to help keep pets and their owners together.
KONG
A manufacturer known for durable pet toys and treats that is partnering to supply goods to the shelter grantees.
The details
Grants fund the installation of essential pet-friendly infrastructure, such as secure play yards, climate-controlled spaces, and relief areas. The funding also supports ongoing pet needs including veterinary care, grooming areas, and waste disposal stations to keep the facilities clean and safe for all residents. Additionally, KONG has committed to providing toys and treats to all nine grantee locations through 2026.
Timeline
KONG will provide ongoing support for toys and treats through 2026.
The Home Front
As homelessness outreach evolves, the focus on keeping pets with their owners has shifted from a niche concern to a standard element of effective housing support. This investment reflects a broader recognition that pets provide vital emotional healing for 91% of domestic violence survivors.
If you or someone you know is seeking shelter with a pet, inquire with local facilities about whether they offer designated pet spaces or relief areas. You can also research if your local shelters participate in regional networks that provide veterinary or boarding support for families in transition.
The takeaway
Supporting pet-friendly shelter capacity is essential for ensuring vulnerable families remain intact during crises. Consider checking with your local humane society or domestic violence resource centers to learn about pet-inclusive policies in your area.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest resources for animal owners in our Pets — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Petage.
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Should local shelters prioritize becoming pet-friendly to help more people in crisis access safety?
