Here is a local organization that makes an incredible difference to NE Ohio women and children who want to escape domestic violence.

S.A.F.E (Safety for Animals and Families in Emergencies) is a non-profit organization who's mission is to provide emergency, temporary placement and other services to the forgotten victims of domestic violence - the companion animals of women and children seeking safety from abusive relationships.

Who they are:

S.A.F.E. is an affiliation of veterinarians, animal shelter/welfare personnel, animal care providers, domestic violence victim support professionals, legal and justice system professionals, and other caring individuals who are looking at the family situation with a holistic eye.

Why they are needed:

As any pet lover can imagine, women and children who live with violence are often extremely attached to their companion animals, who are frequently their only source of comfort and solace. Often, a woman will delay leaving a dangerous situation if she is unable to find shelter for her pet, perpetuating the woman’s (and, possibly, her children’s) risk for abuse.

Although shelters for women and children fleeing violence have been operating within our community for many years, SAFE (formed in 2002) is the only entity to accommodate and provide services for the pets of these families in emergencies.

The sad fact is that animals left behind with abusers are often neglected and frequently become the targets of abuse or death; hence, the reluctance to leave.

What they provide:

The organization places animals in foster homes then reunite them when the owners are in a safe environment. During initial placement, pets receive (at no cost to their owners)

• health screening
• inoculations
• any needed medical attention
• spaying and neutering
• behavioral care

Apparently, there are very few organizations around the US like this - please add any more you know of to the comments in case someone is looking for a shelter. You can e-mail S.A.F.E. at safeanimals1@yahoo.com

Special thanks to Dr. Prueter at the Shaker Animal Clinic for this information.