As the holiday season approaches, incidents of domestic violence often rise, with financial stress and other factors contributing to increased risk. Fort Bend Women’s Center says it is prepared to support those seeking safety.
“Particularly around the holidays, we see a surge in reports and calls for help,” said Josh Brown, CEO of Fort Bend Women’s Center.
The Richmond-based nonprofit provides emergency shelter for survivors and also ensures their pets are safe. Research from the National Domestic Violence Hotline shows 71% of survivors report that their abuser has threatened, harmed, or killed their pets—sometimes delaying their departure from dangerous situations because of concern for their animals.
To address this, Fort Bend Women’s Center partners with the Houston Humane Society so survivors don’t have to choose between their safety and their pets.
“One of the barriers to leaving an abusive relationship is the pet,” Brown said. “What do you do? Where do you go? Sometimes the abuser uses the pet as a tool for control. Houston Humane has stepped in to board these pets, provide veterinary care, and feed them while survivors stabilize their lives.”
Greg Evans, community impact director for Houston Humane, explained that many animals arrive having experienced trauma themselves. His team works to help pets regain trust and a sense of safety.
“Our behavior team provides enrichment to help them come out of their shell and start trusting again,” Evans said.
When survivors are ready, they can reunite with their pets—a moment of joy for both the owners and the teams who helped them.
“Out of everything we do, this is one of the most rewarding times,” Evans said. “Seeing the owner get through the situation and reunite with their four-legged friend—it’s indescribably joyful.”
Survivors needing help can contact Fort Bend Women’s Center’s 24-hour hotline at 281-342-HELP (4357) or visit fbwc.org for support.
Do you know someone in need of help? KPRC 2 released the following features in “Breaking Free.”