SafePaws Program

Proudly supported by The Petbarn Foundation

IMPORTANT: If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call 000 now.

Our SafePaws program is an RSPCA Victoria initiative committed to ensuring people and their pets can find safety together during times of crisis.

For many victim-survivors, fear for a pet’s wellbeing can be a heart breaking barrier to leaving an unsafe situation.

RSPCA Victoria’s SafePaws program addresses this by working with welfare professionals to help reduce barriers and provide safer outcomes that include pets for those seeking support. The program provides practical support through vital provisions or pet-accommodation solutions, complemented by education and advocacy to help drive lasting change.

SafePaws works with dedicated welfare professionals and organisations to supply or provide:

Emergency Pet Packs stocked with essentials like pet food, bowls, bedding, leads, carriers and comfort items for immediate distribution through case workers.
Veterinary Care, in the event of requiring access for domestic family violence-related pet injuries or rehabilitation for animals recovering during transitions to safety.
Secure and Safe Emergency Pet Boarding for those experiencing restrictions or challenges in sourcing of safe havens for their animal companions during times of crisis. (If emergency boarding is not available, our Crisis Support Coordinator will work extensively to support case workers explore alternative care options with friends or family)
Dedicated Advocacy Support, committed to driving policy change through highlighting recommendations and suggested improvements to government planning for pet-inclusive housing for people affected by domestic and family violence and their animal companions.
Targeted Education Sessions designed to upskill and equip welfare teams, stakeholders and industry professionals on the critical link and latest insights between domestic family violence and animal cruelty. These sessions provide actionable advice and the latest insights to support and consider the inclusion of pets in risk assessments for exit planning and emergency accommodation.

RSPCA Victoria is committed to working alongside key welfare organisations and dedicated industry professionals with these essential resources and expert guidance to support victim-survivors – and their pets – during times of crisis.

For any questions on the program or to book a team of experts to present a workshop or info session, please contact RSPCA Victoria’s SafePaws Crisis Support via safepaws@rspcavic.org.au

Click here to learn more about safety planning that includes your pet.