Can you imagine leaving your beloved pet behind with someone who might hurt or even kill him or her? Neither can we. That’s why Harbor House of Central Florida opened the Paws for Peace Kennel on our emergency shelter campus in 2012.

Harbor House of Central Florida is one of the few domestic violence shelters in Florida to accept pets. Harbor House’s pet kennel was an important addition to the emergency shelter 10 years ago, because many people opt to stay in abusive homes rather than leave their pets behind.

65% of domestic violence victims delay fleeing because they fear for the safety of their pets. Statistically, 48% to 71% of victims with pets report that their pets have been abused or killed. Since opening our doors 9 years ago, the emergency kennel has housed hundreds of dogs, cats, birds, hamsters, turtles, and other animals. The Paws for Peace Walk raises the funds needed to support domestic violence survivors and keep our pet shelter running, which keeps pets and their owners safe.