FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(SASKATOON: January 12, 2022) An upcoming webinar series highlights new options to assist pet owners when escaping a violent situation.

The victims of intimate partner violence (IPV) often stay in a violent situation rather than leave without their animals since most domestic violence shelters in Saskatchewan do not allow pets.

The webinar series explores the link between violence to humans and animals, the benefits of pet safekeeping programs, and the ways that domestic violence shelters can become “pet friendly.”

Pet-friendly domestic violence shelters make it possible for the survivors of IPV to remain with, and care for, their pets in a safe and welcoming environment.

“Having their beloved pets by their side provides a sense of security and comfort for the survivor, their children, and their animals,” says Laura Zmud, Family Ties Coordinator at the SaskSPCA.

“In our research with survivors, service providers, and members of the public in Saskatchewan, we found significant support for domestic violence shelters to welcome pets. We are now working together to make this a reality,” says Crystal Giesbrecht, Director of Research and Communications, Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS).

Webinar dates and topics:

Jan. 19: Sheltering Animals & Families Together (SAF-T®)
Jan. 26: Becoming Pet Friendly: Guidance for domestic violence shelters
Feb. 9: Take Action: Here’s how you can assist the victims of domestic violence and their pets

These webinars are offered free of charge and are open to the public. For more information or to register, see the SaskSPCA website: saskspca.ca

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For more information, please contact:

Crystal Giesbrecht, BSW, MSW, RSW
Director of Research and Communications
Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS)
Phone: (306) 522-3515
paths.research@sasktel.net
pathssk.org

Laura Zmud, BSW, RSW
Family Ties Coordinator
SaskSPCA
Phone: 306.382.7726
laura@saskspca.ca
saskspca.ca

About PATHS:
The Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS) is the member association for domestic violence shelters and counselling centres in Saskatchewan. We support our members through research, training, and providing opportunities for peer support.

About the SaskSPCA:
The Saskatchewan Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SaskSPCA) is the voice for animals and their people. We educate and promote the wellbeing of animals, strengthening the human-animal bond. As change-makers, we advance policy, with a focus on ensuring the sustained humane treatment of animals. Our collective efforts improve the lives of animals today and into the future.