We’re not sure what his true age is or how long he will be with us at RSPCA ACT. We don’t know much about his previous home life, medical history or even his real name. The only thing we really know is that this loving feline needed us, and we were there to help. Our shelter took him in as a short-term emergency boarding case. His owner was fleeing a domestic violence situation.  

Looking at his little face, my heart broke for him. We’ll never know what he’s seen or what he’s been through. The best we can do is to make sure he’s loved, healthy and safe at the shelter while his owner sorts out their life. 

Since anyone on our staff can remember, RSPCA ACT has been opening our doors to animals that are owned by people fleeing unsafe environments. Unfortunately, there are few options for pet owners in these situations. The majority of human shelters will not take animals. Furthermore, most boarding facilities won’t take animals without up-to-date medical records and vaccinations, much less for a pet owner that likely has no money and a violent partner that is potentially looking for their pet too.

Our inspectors have too often seen the link between violence to humans and animals, which is why we have provided our domestic violence program, Project SAFE (Support for Animals and Familie in Emergencies) at no cost to those involved. All animals on entry are given a free vet check, vaccinations, deworming tablets, safe shelter and a new name to protect their identities. Immediate medical needs are also taken care of by our vet staff.

Unfortunately, the longer-term sustainability of this program could be at risk without some help from the local community, which is why we are finally telling the public about this program now. Currently, we receive about one request for help per business day. Our limited capacity forces us to say no to about two-thirds of those who ask for assistance.

Last year alone, RSPCA ACT spent over $35,800 caring for emergency boarding cases. We hope to generate support from the local Canberra community to continue running the program through regular donations and by recruiting foster carers who might help us by taking in an animal into their homes on a short-term basis.

Not everyone is so lucky to have family and friends that can care for their pet while they get back on their feet. When an animal has nowhere else to go, we want to continue to be there. Help us end the cycle of abuse and continue to make Project SAFE an available refuge for those in need. 

Please donate or become a foster carer by visiting www.rspca-act.org.au/project-safe.