How to Find Temporary Housing for Your Dogs and Cats
Life has a habit of throwing curveballs: an upcoming surgery, sudden unemployment, or even a natural disaster can leave you temporarily unable to care for your pets. Before considering rehoming your dog or cat—animals who are truly part of your family—explore temporary housing options. These programs help keep pets safe while you stabilize your situation, with the goal of joyful reunions when you’re ready to resume full-time pet parenting.
How Do Temporary Housing Programs Work?
Temporary housing programs provide a safe, supervised environment for your pet while you navigate personal hardship. Unlike traditional foster programs—where volunteers care for animals awaiting adoption—temporary housing is specifically designed for pets whose owners face short-term challenges but intend to welcome them home again.
In cases of domestic violence, these services become vital. Studies show that many survivors delay seeking safety because they fear for their pets’ well-being. According to national data, over 70% of individuals in domestic violence shelters report that their abuser threatened, harmed, or killed a pet. Fortunately, many shelters now partner with animal welfare groups—or operate their own pet-friendly accommodations—to protect both people and pets simultaneously.
Where Can I Find Emergency Housing for My Pet?
If you’ve been displaced by a hurricane, wildfire, tornado, or other disaster, start by contacting your insurance provider—they may offer pet relocation or boarding support. If not, reach out to humanitarian organizations like the American Red Cross.
The Red Cross strives to accommodate pets in emergency shelters whenever possible. When space or safety constraints prevent co-location, they partner with trusted animal welfare groups to ensure your companion receives proper care. Eligible pets include dogs, cats, small birds, rodents, fish, amphibians, and reptiles (in secure enclosures). Always bring your pet with you—and remember, service animals are always welcomed in Red Cross shelters without restriction.
What Are the Requirements for Temporary Pet-Housing Programs?
Because demand often exceeds capacity, most programs require applicants to demonstrate that all other options have been explored. You’ll likely need to complete an application detailing:
- Your reason for seeking temporary housing
- The anticipated duration of care needed
- Your pet’s spay/neuter status and medical history
- Any known bite history
- Age, breed, and dietary needs
- Behavioral traits—including how they respond during vet visits and at home
- Temperament and daily routines
Do I Need a Temporary Home for My Dog or Cat?
While commercial boarding facilities work for short stays, they’re rarely sustainable for longer-term needs—like military deployment, extended hospitalization, or recovery from major life changes. Instead, consider these practical steps:
- Evaluate your timeline: Will you need care for days, weeks, months, or longer? This helps narrow your search.
- Ask your inner circle: Reach out to family and friends—even if no one can host full-time, shared responsibility may be possible.
- Leverage your network: Post thoughtfully on social media; many communities rally quickly to support pet parents in crisis.
- Use a trusted platform: Apps like FurPetVo connect pet owners with screened, background-checked caregivers in your area. FurPetVo also offers confidential messaging so you can receive regular updates about your pet’s well-being.
- Contact local shelters and rescues: Many run formal temporary housing programs—or can refer you to nearby partners who do.
- Explore reputable national and regional organizations: Several groups specialize in bridging gaps for pet families in transition.
Organizations That Provide Temporary Pet Housing
Nationwide Resources:
- FurPetVo (furpetvo.com)
- Dogs on Deployment
- Guardian Angels for Soldier’s Pets
- Home to Home
- Pact for Animals
- Sheltering Animals & Families Together (SAFT)
State-Specific Programs:
- Arizona: Arizona Humane Society, Lost Our Home Pet Rescue
- California: San Diego Humane Society
- Colorado: Denver Temporary Pet Housing Program
- Connecticut: Connecticut Humane Society
- Florida: Florida Keys SPCA, Humane Society of Pinellas
- Illinois: Anti-Cruelty Society
- Indiana: Humane Indiana
- Maryland: Montgomery County Animal Services & Adoption Center
- Minnesota: Animal Humane Society
- Nebraska: Nebraska Humane Society
- New York: SPCA Serving Erie County
- Ohio: Found House, SICSA Pet Adoption & Wellness Center
- Pennsylvania: Crisis Center North, Paws Across Pittsburgh, Paws Philadelphia
- Utah: Davis County Animal Care, Ruff Haven Crisis Sheltering
- Virginia: PetHaven Program
