If you are facing eviction, housing instability, or a temporary living situation that does not allow pets, surrendering your pet may not be your only option.

You may have alternatives that allow you to keep your pet safely.

Michigan Humane – Safety Net Program

🔗 https://www.michiganhumane.org/safety-net-program/

Michigan Humane’s Safety Net Program is designed to help people and pets stay together during times of crisis. Support may include:

• Temporary assistance during housing instability

• Help navigating pet-friendly housing options

• Referrals to temporary foster care or boarding in emergency situations

• Access to pet food and supplies

• Support during life transitions or unexpected hardship

 Availability of services may vary based on location, capacity, and individual circumstances.

If you are experiencing domestic violence or feel unsafe, your safety comes first — and your pet’s safety matters too.

Michigan Humane – Safety Net Program

🔗 https://www.michiganhumane.org/safety-net-program/

Michigan Humane’s Safety Net Program can help people in unsafe situations plan for their pet’s care while they seek safety. Support may include:

• Confidential assistance and planning for pets in crisis situations

• Temporary foster or shelter options for pets

• Help coordinating care while you relocate or access support services

• Guidance on next steps without judgment or pressure

 Reaching out for help does not automatically require surrendering your pet.

If this situation applies to you, we encourage you to:

• Contact Michigan Humane’s Safety Net Program directly, and/or

• Reach out to us before submitting a surrender application so we can discuss safe options

If money is the main reason you’re considering surrendering your pet, there may be support available to help you keep them.

Community Pet Food Pantry

When available, our community pet food pantry may provide:

• Dog & cat food

• Treats

• Cat litter

Supplies depend on donations and may not always be available.

Low-Cost Veterinary Care (Vaccines & Wellness)

If vet costs are a concern, these options may help:

Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV)

• Low-cost vaccination clinics

• Flea, tick & heartworm prevention Appointment required🔗https://www.hshv.org

Vetco Clinics (Inside Petco)

• Affordable vaccine packages

• Microchipping & dewormingNo exam fees🔗https://www.vetcoclinics.com

All About Animals Rescue

• Traveling low-cost shot clinics

• Basic wellness services🔗https://allaboutanimalsrescue.org

Michigan Humane – One Health Clinics

• Low-cost vet services & community clinics🔗https://www.michiganhumane.org/one-health/

Many behavior challenges are fixable with simple changes and are very common — especially during times of stress or transition.

House Soiling / Litter Box Issues

Try:

• More frequent potty breaks or litter box cleaning

• Ensuring enough litter boxes (rule of thumb: one per cat + one extra)

• Ruling out medical issues with a vet

• Using enzymatic cleaners to remove scent markers

Pulling on Leash / Jumping / Too Much Energy

Try:

• Short, frequent walks instead of one long one

• Mental enrichment (snuffle mats, puzzle feeders)

• Reward calm behavior with treats and praise

• Basic training videos or group classes (many are free online!)
  

Anxiety, Destruction, or Vocalizing

Try:

• Predictable routines

• Safe spaces (crate, covered bed, quiet room)

• Increased enrichment and exercise

• Calming aids (pheromone diffusers, calming chews — ask a vet)

Many behavior issues worsen during housing changes, schedule disruptions, or stress — and often improve once routines stabilize.