The move to the new shelter building this past winter gave us much more than additional space. It made us one of just a handful of shelters in Toronto to accept pets.
“Leaving your pet can be devastating and there are women who may delay leaving a partner, or choose not to leave at all, out of fear for their pet,” says Jyoti Singh, executive director.
The link between animal cruelty and intimate partner violence is well documented. Research shows that violence toward people and violence toward animals are part of a larger pattern of violent crimes that co-exist, known as the violence link. Fearing for a pets’ safety, and choosing not to leave an unsafe situation because of it, is not uncommon.
“A pet left behind can even be used as a tool to hurt or control a woman,” says Jyoti.
With Nellie’s shelter building now big enough for every family unit to have their own room, pets can stay close to their human. (At 21,800 sq. ft, the building has 40 beds spread out over 22 bedrooms, compared to 36 beds in 9 bedrooms in the old shelter’s 8,900 sq. ft. building.) All types of pets are welcome — cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, even reptiles.
On the building’s lower level, there is also a pet care room with an enhanced ventilation system, designed with dogs in mind. It has a dedicated shower that allow dogs of all sizes to easily climb in and out. And, the fenced yard means pets (and kids!) have an outdoor space to play.
“A pet is much more than an animal; a pet is a loved member of the family who provides comfort and even therapy. If you are feeling isolated and uncared for, a pet loves you and is dependent on you and is going to be a part of your support system,” says Jyoti.
Even with the space and the pet care room, the shelter is not designed to house pets long-term — another resident may have allergies, multiple pets living in the shelter at the same time may not get along, and more. As such, we have partnered with the Toronto Humane Society to find loving foster families to care for the pets that come to Nellie’s until their owner is ready to move into her own home with her beloved pet. The Toronto Humane Society will also donate pet food to the shelter when we have pets in our care.
“Being in the new shelter gives us the ability to provide even greater support to women and their children. It’s hard enough to tear yourself away from your home and your belongings; bringing a loved one with you who is not human gives that little bit of extra comfort.”
