Since 2012, Rose Brooks Center has had an on-site pet shelter and fully staffed pet program, allowing families to bring their pets to shelter with them. With a recent renovation of creating fully private spaces however, survivors now have the option to keep their beloved pets in their rooms — allowing them to live and heal together in the same secure space.
This program goes beyond protection and assists the pet owner in accessing community resources to help with the health, safety and well-being of their pet including vaccinations, spay/neuter, preventative health care examinations and medical care.
Facts About Pets
98% of Americans consider pets to be companions or members of the family.
71% of pet-owning survivors reported that their batterer had injured, maimed, killed or threatened family pets for revenge or to psychologically control victims.
Abusers kill, harm or threaten children’s pets to coerce them into sexual abuse or to force them to remain silent about abuse.
98% of Americans consider pets to be companions or members of the family.
71% of pet-owning survivors reported that their batterer had injured, maimed, killed or threatened family pets for revenge or to psychologically control victims.
Approximately 50% of survivors of domestic violence say they are unable to escape abusive situations because they worry about what will happen to their pets should they leave.
In 2012, Rose Brooks Center became the first domestic violence shelter in the region to welcome four-legged family members.
The idea for this incredible project was born, when a woman called our hotline after her boyfriend had beaten her – almost to death. Immediately we found space for this young woman. There was one problem. She had a 110-pound Great Dane whom she refused to leave behind. The dog had saved her life by lying on top of her during the attack and taking the majority of the blows. As a result, he sustained many broken bones.
The giant Dane was the first animal to live at Rose Brooks Center, but he was only the first.
To read more about J. Matthew and his mom, visit https://inbloom.rosebrooks.org/j-matthews-legacy/
General Inquiries
Administration Office
816-523-5550
7:30am to 4:30pm
Mailing Address For Donations
Rose Brooks Center
P.O. Box 320599
Kansas City, MO 64132
Rose Brooks Center is about saving lives. Each year, Rose Brooks Center reaches over 14,000 individuals and pets. While hundreds of individuals find safety in emergency shelter, thousands more are served outside of shelter each year. We accomplish this through groundbreaking programs and services, built over the past 40 years.
