For families facing housing insecurity, domestic violence or financial hardship, “no pets allowed” policies can force the heartbreaking decision to part with beloved companions. This challenge not only impacts families but also places additional strain on animal well-being organizations through increased shelter intakes and resource demands. Co-sheltering is defined by My Dog Is My Home as the sheltering of people and animals together at the same emergency or temporary housing facility.

By embracing co-sheltering initiatives, pet-friendly housing solutions, and robust community partnerships, we can keep families together.

As we continue Maddie’s Fund^®‘s 30th anniversary celebration, we’re asking you to share how your organization is involved with co-sheltering over on Maddie’s^® Pet Forum.

• Is your organization involved in co-sheltering programs, pet-friendly housing initiatives, or collaborations with human services?
• What challenges have you faced in supporting people and their pets?
• What successful strategies have you implemented to bridge the gap between human and animal services?

We invite you to share your experiences, insights, and questions. Your contributions on this thread not only foster collective growth but also enter you into our monthly $1,000 Cuddly prize pack giveaway in celebration of Maddie’s Fund 30th Anniversary! Plus, every post on Maddie’s^® Pet Forum counts toward an entry to win a $3,000 grant for your organization. Congratulations to February’s winner, Elaine Edington, Grant Coordinator at Genesee County Animal Control / Shelter Animal Donations.