Caring for yourself
Caring for yourself, to care for your pet.
Our animals need us, and none of us can hold it all together all the time. If you're struggling, reaching out is part of taking care of them too.
In crisis right now?
If you're thinking about suicide, or you're worried about someone who might be, call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org. It's free, confidential and open all day, every day, in English and Spanish. If someone is in danger right now, call 911.
Crisis lines
Someone to talk to, any time.
If someone at home is hurting you
You and your pet both deserve to be safe.
People who hurt their partners often hurt or threaten their pets too, to frighten and control them. Many people stay because they won't leave a pet behind. You don't have to choose.
Planning to leave with your pet
- A hotline advocate can help you make a safety plan that includes your pets.
- Keep proof your pet is yours, like vet records, adoption papers or a license in your name, somewhere safe.
- Think about where your pet could stay: a friend, a shelter that takes pets, or a boarding program.
- In Virginia, a protective order can give you possession of your pet if you're the owner. Ask about it when you apply.
Who to call
It opens Google in place of this page, and Back won't bring this page up again. Someone who checks your phone or computer may still see the sites you've visited in your history.
Mental health
You don't have to be in crisis to ask for help.
Stress, money worries, depression and burnout make everything harder, including caring for a pet. These are places to start.
Mental health support is being added here. In a crisis, call or text 988.
Grieving a pet
Losing a pet is real grief.
So is having to give one up, or not knowing where a lost pet is. Nobody should tell you it's “just a pet”. These lines are for exactly this.
Pet loss support is being added here.
Help with your pet
Getting help for yourself shouldn't mean losing your pet.
If you need to be away
If money's tight
Want to talk it through?
These services are run by other organizations. Call to confirm details. Nothing here is medical or legal advice.