Temporary housing for domestic violence victims and their pets is coming to Maplewood next year.

The nonprofit Tubman plans to add onto its existing 90-bed shelter with dedicated space for pet owners and their animals, a first for the Twin Cities area.

More than half of all domestic violence survivors resist leaving an abusive relationship out of concern for a pet’s safety, and one in four return to an abusive partner for that reason. Around 75% of domestic violence survivors have pets that have been threatened, hurt or killed as revenge or intimidation, according to Tubman.

Harriet’s Haven for Pets will have room for eight cats and eight dogs at any one time. The added animal space is part of a national movement to ensure 25% of domestic violence shelters are pet-friendly by next year.

Veronika Lantseva, a Tubman board member, said many domestic abuse victims face the “impossible decision” to either stay in an abusive relationship or leave their dog behind. Lantseva herself fled an abusive situation a few years ago with her dog, thanks to a family friend. She’s not sure she would have left had it meant leaving the dog with her partner.

Lantseva said her dog also provided a sense of emotional security for her during that time — another reason it’s important to keep pets and victims together.

“At the end of the day, when your friends have gone home, when your family has gone to bed, and you just need someone to be there, your little buddy is going to be there for you,” Lantseva said.

Tubman said the community response to the Harriet’s Haven addition has been positive, with many asking how they can help. Though the nonprofit isn’t ready for volunteers yet, leaders know they will need volunteers and donations once they’re ready to open. For now, people can visit tubman.org to learn more about foster volunteer opportunities and monetary donations.

“This is one of those unique opportunities to help both people and pets,” Lantseva said, “and to give back in a really meaningful way.”

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