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CASA Pinellas to host pet-themed holiday market
The Thursday event will help the organization raise funds to improve its on-site kennel.
According to the Animal Humane Society, only 17% percent of domestic violence shelters in the country accept pets.
CASA Pinellas, a domestic violence support organization, offers various services including an emergency shelter. This safe place is one of the few that allow pets to stay with their owners. The nonprofit, in partnership with Green Bench Brewing Company and Protecting Paws for Life, is hosting a pet-themed holiday market Thursday (Dec. 11).
The event, which will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. at the St. Petersburg brewery, will help spread awareness about CASA’s on-site kennel and raise funds for necessary improvements, said the organization’s CEO Lariana Forsythe.
“National statistics say that 89% of women who had a companion animal during an abusive relationship reported that their animals were threatened, harmed or killed by their abusive partners,” she explained. “So, many survivors won’t leave because they’re afraid of what’s going to happen to their pet if they can’t take their pet with them.”
Domestic violence can also have a psychological effect on pets when they’re being used to manipulate survivors. These animals are seeing people they love engage in destructive behaviors, Forsythe continued.
CASA’s kennel first opened in 2018, with space for three small to medium sized dogs and two cats. Now it can accommodate four large dogs and four cats or cat-sized animals.
CASA Pinellas’s on-site kennel. Photo provided.
The kennel is not just for dogs and cats. Other pets are allowed to stay as well, she said. In the past, CASA has welcomed reptiles, guinea pigs and birds.
“When someone is in an abusive relationship, having an emotional support animal is soothing,” Forsythe added. “It’s really important for both the survivor and the pet to maintain that relationship.”
Since opening, the kennel has been in regular use.
Renovations are needed to ensure the pets’ safety moving forward, she explained. With the funds, CASA plans to upgrade the building’s air conditioning system and install new cabinetry, among other improvements.
The inaugural event will feature an array of activities. These include a pet costume contest, 50/50 raffle, animal aura reading, custom sketches and pet portraits with Santa Claus.
CASA representatives will also give a presentation to highlight statistics and key information about survivors and their pets.
“If you’re in an abusive situation and you don’t think you can take your pet, you might not even consider that there are options,” Forsythe said.
Snacks for both humans and pets will be available. Local vendors including Andy’s Frozen Custard, the Salt Bakery and Pet Purrfection Treats are scheduled to participate.
To learn more about the event, visit this link.
