The Purple Paws Initiative helps survivors
of domestic violence escape safely with their pets
by funding emergency veterinary care and temporary boarding through community partnerships.
Heidi's Story
Heidi was my mini-dachshund and constant companion for 15 years. She had a purple collar and a little purple harness that she wore everywhere.
When I made the decision to leave my abusive relationship, there was never a question about whether Heidi would come with me. She was my family. Leaving her behind was not an option.
Many survivors face a heartbreaking reality. Abusers often threaten, harm, or control pets as a way to manipulate their partners. For some victims, the fear of what could happen to their animal keeps them trapped in dangerous situations longer than they should be.
Heidi passed away in 2020, but the promise I made in that moment still matters.
The Purple Paws Initiative exists so no survivor ever has to choose between their safety and the pet they love.
Through local funding partnerships with shelters, veterinarians, and foster networks, IgniteHer is setting up to help survivors leave safely with their animals or ensure their pets are protected until they can be reunited.
Because family sometimes walks on four paws.
Paws = Family
What the Purple Paws Initiative Provides
• Emergency veterinary exams and vaccinations
• Temporary boarding with partner veterinarians
• Emergency pet food, crates, and supplies
• Transportation support for pets leaving abusive homes
• Coordination with shelters and foster networks until pets can be safely reunited
How Purple Paws Works
Referral
Survivors are referred through domestic violence shelters, advocates, or law enforcement partners.
Emergency Care
IgniteHer funds veterinary exams, vaccinations, and emergency boarding through local veterinary partners.
Temporary Protection
Pets remain safely housed while survivors secure safe housing or shelter placement.
Reunification
Once survivors are safely relocated, pets are reunited with their families.
Program Impact Goals
• Provide emergency care and boarding for pets of domestic violence survivors
• Expand partnerships with veterinary clinics across the Tampa Bay region
• Ensure survivors never have to delay leaving abuse because of concern for their pets
Community Partnerships
Purple Paws operates through partnerships with local domestic violence shelters, veterinary clinics, and animal care networks. These collaborations allow survivors to leave abusive situations knowing their pets will receive immediate care and safe temporary housing.
Help Survivors Leave Safely With Their Pets
• $50 helps provide emergency pet food and supplies
• $300 helps cover a veterinary exam and vaccinations
• $500 helps provide emergency boarding for a pet escaping abuse