The special bond between human beings and animals holds a healing place in the world of human and animal welfare. This unique bond has the capacity to change lives for people experiencing homelessness or grappling with their mental health, people living with disabilities or chronic illnesses, veterans or domestic violence survivors recovering from trauma, or children adjusting to placement in foster care. The human-animal bond provides comfort, strengthens households, enhances stability and recovery, and lifts up communities. This relationship has the power to heal and nurture in a time when we need it most.

American Pets Alive!’s Human Animal Support Services project is facilitating a growing national and international movement to transform animal services through innovative programs and services designed to support people and pets within their communities.

In this model, shelters and communities assist families without separating them from their pets, whenever possible. We are building connections with human services, and bringing the animal welfare world and community members together to engage in partnerships that support the bond of people and animals.