One of AWS’ lesser known services is temporary emergency sheltering, provided through our Stay@Home program. Stay@Home is a suite of services intended to help pets and their people stay together in times of hardship.
What is temporary emergency sheltering?
When pet owners in our community (York County) are experiencing a temporary crisis and need a safe place for their pet to stay on a short-term basis, AWS has the Stay@Home program. Pet owners can reach out to AWS to request temporary emergency sheltering. Though this program, AWS provides a safe and comfortable place for the pet to reside while their owners navigate their situation. We house pets either in our Fear-Free shelter or in foster care.
Common reasons for pet owners to seek temporary emergency sheltering include:
- seeking in-patient medical care,
- fleeing a domestic violence situation,
- utilizing rehab services,
- or experiencing housing instability (such as a house fire or eviction).
Recently, in the state of Maine, another reason for temporary emergency pet sheltering has emerged: involuntary detention by federal immigration or border control agents. We want our York County community to know: we are here. No matter the reason, if you and your pet are separated and your pet needs care, AWS can help!
What to do if you or someone you know needs temporary care for their pet
If you believe you may be at risk of separation from your pet, first, we recommend you put together an emergency pet kit (see here). Secondly, we recommend you ask a trusted person to care for your pet in your absence. Please make sure they have AWS’ Stay@Home program information.
If you know of a pet who has been separated from their family and you do not believe it is being cared for, please call your local animal control officer (usually through the town’s non-emergency police line). Animal control can provide support, including transporting the pet to a local animal shelter (like AWS) for temporary sheltering.
If you know of someone seeking support to feed their pet, AWS partners with local community service organizations and food pantries. We provide pet food for them to offer their pet owning clientele. Here is a listing of local food resources and their contact information.
