ORLANDO, Fla. – “Happy pets make happy owners, and we want to make these gals happy.”
That idea is guiding a community effort to support domestic violence survivors by caring for the animals they love most.
For many survivors, pets provide comfort, stability, and unconditional love during a difficult time. Fear of leaving those pets behind can prevent people from escaping abusive situations.
VCA Piedmont Animal Hospital has partnered with Harbor House of Central Florida since 2017 to care for pets staying at the organization’s Paws for Peace Kennel.
The goal is to provide medical care without judgment or financial burden.
“I feel like us helping the pets gives these women one less thing to worry about,” said Dr. Maureen Burton with VCA Piedmont Animal Hospital.
The hospital provides routine and preventive care, including heartworm treatment, parasite control, and physical exams, helping ensure pets remain healthy while their owners focus on rebuilding their lives.
“These pets are their only comfort in this difficult situation,” Burton said. “To be able to take that pet with them is key for them to continue on.”
When pets need urgent care, the Veterinary Emergency Clinic of Central Florida steps in. The 24/7 emergency facility provides services such as X-rays, bloodwork, and surgery, treating conditions ranging from pneumonia to emergency cesarean sections.
“We’re here for the community to help those cases that the regular vet can’t handle,” said Megan Devoe, the clinic’s public relations director.
Devoe said the work is rooted in the human-animal bond.
“Not to be able to take the one thing, one loving thing that’s been with them through thick and thin, that is devastating,” she said.
Once pets recover, Mother Fluffers, a mobile dog grooming service, offers free grooming to help them look and feel their best.
“Our logo is ‘we give a fluff,’ so we care about the animals. We care about the pet parents,” said owner Amy Makris.
Makris said the service often creates opportunities to build trust with survivors.
“It’s really special that they trust us and that they’re willing to open up to us,” she said.
A fresh cut and clean coat can provide a sense of renewal for both pets and their owners.
“Even if it’s just for one day, they’re going to be OK,” Makris said.
The Paws for Peace Kennel provides a safe place for pets while survivors work to rebuild their lives. Through partnerships with veterinary and grooming services, the program ensures animals receive the care they need.
Organizers said the goal is to make sure survivors do not have to choose between their safety and their pets, helping both move forward together.