Getting Help
We are proud to be the only charity in New Zealand dedicated to helping victims escape family violence by providing temporary care for their pets. But we can’t do it alone.
As part of a nationwide network, we work alongside NZ Police, Women’s Refuge, Shine, and other experts in crisis support. Together, we ensure both people and pets have a safe path forward.
Our mission complements theirs: without us, families face the heartbreaking barrier of leaving their pets behind. Without our partners, human victims may struggle to get the care they need to rebuild their lives. Together, we create the freedom to start over.
How our referral process works
Reaching out for help
Contact us directly on 0800 Pet Refuge (0800 738 733 843) or reach out to one of our trusted referral partners—experts in crisis support for people. We can respond to emergencies or work with you or your referral partner on an exit plan.
Reaching out for help
Contact us directly on 0800 Pet Refuge (0800 738 733 843) or reach out to one of our trusted referral partners—experts in crisis support for people. We can respond to emergencies or work with you or your referral partner on an exit plan.
Safe transport to our facility
Whether by car or flight, we handle all logistics, ensuring pets are safely transported to our refuge or temporary boarding partners.
Bespoke care for pets
At Pet Refuge, pets receive everything they need to heal—expert care, enrichment, and love—until they can be reunited with their family.
Veterinary care
Each pet receives a full health check on arrival allowing us to identify and care for injury or illness resultant of their trauma. Care may also include vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing with their human parent’s permission.Enrichment and training
Our bespoke training and enrichment plans are one of the most important parts of our programme as both help to keep our pet’s minds and bodies active and gently assist them to unlearn trauma-based behaviours and responses in a safe loving environment.Ongoing Communication
Our Caseworkers provide updates, support, and check-ins, coordinating closely with clients and their referral agencies.
Reuniting pets with their families
Our favourite part - Once the family finds a safe home, we organise the pet’s transport and provide essentials for a seamless reunion.
Each of our partners brings unique expertise to the table. By working hand-in-hand, we ensure families have the resources they need to escape violence and rebuild their lives.
Ourreferralpartners:Anetworkoftrust
Featured Partners
If you or one of your clients need help, contact us on 0800 PET REFUGE (0800 738 733 843) or help@petrefuge.org.nz.
Are you in immediate danger?
Call 111 and ask for the Police. If you need the NZ Police but can’t speak for fear of harm, you will be asked to press keys for emergency assistance.
Woman's Refuge - Refuge for women and children experiencing family violence.
Crisisline: 0800 REFUGE / 0800 733 843
Shine - Domestic abuse helpline and support services.
Helpline: 0508 744 633
Shakti - 24 hour crisis line with multi-lingual staff.
Helpline: 0800 SHAKTI / 0800 742 584
Oranga Tamariki - Ministry for Children Ensuring children and young people are safe.
Worried about a child? Call: 0508 FAMILY / 0508 326 459
Rape Crisis - Providing support, advocacy and assistance to find safety.
National call line: 0800 88 33 00
Safe to talk - 24/7 Sexual harm helpline.
Crisisline: 0800 044 334 or text 4334
Elder Abuse Response Service - Provides advice, information, and support.
Call 0800 32 668 65 or text 5032
Male domestic violence support network - A range of organisations supporting men in local communities to be free from violence.
Contact: Details vary per region, find your best helpline through the link.
Are you okay - Family violence information line.
Call: 0800 456 450