For Domestic Violence Victims and Their Pets, We Aren’t Backing Down

More than 70% of women in domestic violence shelters report that their abuser used their pet(s) as a means of control. When survivors make the terrifying decision to leave, many face a cruel reality: only 17% of domestic violence shelters accept pets. It’s no wonder that nearly half of survivors delay leaving in order to protect what may be their main source of love and support.

It's unacceptable. In 2019, Purina committed to doing something about it, and the Purple Leash Project was born.

We partnered with Red Rover, a national nonprofit focused on this issue, to raise awareness and increase the number of pet-friendly domestic violence shelters in the U.S. And we quickly got to work, advocating for survivors with pets and providing resources to make a difference. Since the Purple Leash Project was created, Purina has:

We aren’t stopping there. By the end of 2025, we want to help ensure that at least 25 percent of shelters offer pet-friendly services. Because we believe no survivor should have to choose between their own safety and the safety of their pet.

We cannot do this alone. You can share this program on social media, using #PurpleLeashProject, visit PurpleLeashProject.com to sign up for updates, and drive awareness with Purple Leash Project merchandising shipper units, available through your Purina sales rep.

As we mark Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, join us as we create meaningful, long-term change for domestic violence survivors and their pets.