We provide the only specialist animal fostering service for survivors of domestic abuse in the Southwest. Our animal fostering service removes a significant barrier which prevents many families from escaping domestic abuse. We believe that animals are an important part of survivors’ coping strategies and that the reciprocal bond between survivors and their pets aids recovery from trauma. We know from research and service evaluations that these families would not have escaped abuse if they had nowhere for their animals to go while they were in emergency accommodation. “I dread to think where I would be if Charlie my dog had not been fostered. I was in such a low place and didn’t see a way out. I could not handle another beating. Charlie was the only reason I could not leave.” Sheila Our service provides support for survivors fleeing domestic abuse by collecting animals from them at a safe location and transporting them to volunteer foster families. Immediate veterinary care is provided if needed and any ongoing veterinary care and medication. We also provide all food, bedding, treats and toys while animals are with their foster families. Although the location of foster families is kept confidential, we provide regular updates on the welfare of animals to the survivor as we know this helps with their mental health and recovery from the trauma they have experienced. Animals are reunited with their owners when they are in safer, more permanent accommodation. Sadly, due to the housing crisis in the Southwest, this can sometimes take up to a year. We cover all costs while animals are in our care. We do this because we know people fleeing domestic abuse often leave with nothing. “Without Refuge4Pets I would not have been able to leave the dangerous situation I was in. It helped me get through some very traumatic days, weeks and months knowing my dog was being so well looked after and that I would be reunited with her one day.” Sam