We now know that about half of people experiencing domestic abuse stay in unsafe situations because they do not want to leave their pets behind. Sacramento-based RedRover, an organization that helps animals in crisis, identified this barrier through its research. In response, communities across the country have expanded shelter options that accommodate both survivors and their pets. Today, two shelters in our area provide space for pets, Alexandra House in Blaine, and Harriet’s Haven for Pets at Tubman in Maplewood.
Tubman’s east campus is located in our former Monastery building built by the Sisters in 1965. When the Sisters recognized the need to right-size their space, they entered into a thoughtful process of discernment about how their property could continue to serve the community. They ultimately chose to partner with Tubman, sharing a mission of providing safety, hope, and healing for those in need.
Tubman moved into the building in 2012 and transformed it into one of the largest domestic violence shelters in Minnesota. Building on that shared commitment to hospitality and human dignity, Tubman began plans in 2024 to renovate the space and create accommodations for animals on site, ensuring that survivors would not have to choose between their own safety and the well-being of their beloved pets.
Harriet’s Haven for Pets officially opened earlier this year and has already received its first animals staying on site. In April, Monastery staff members were there to meet the staff and get a tour. At first glance, the new location is very clean and organized with large-size dedicated boarding spaces for dogs on one side and smaller spaces on the opposite for cats.
The cat spaces offer a two-level, divided space with small doorways that can be opened and locked to give cats the ability to move around and for staff to maintain their litter with ease. There is a large and cozy dedicated living room space complete with a couch and large cat tree located beside the boarding area where pet owners can sit and visit with their pets. The pets also have access to an outdoor play space that is enclosed by a very safe looking wooden fence and gate leading to the exterior of the Tubman building.
The manager of Harriet’s Haven for Pets is Zoey DeFurio. She shared her hope with Monastery staff that each pet staying on site receive their own set of dedicated items (toys, beds, etc.) that they can take with them wherever they head to next. This is, she suggested, a real need, as supplies will need to be constantly replenished. The work here extends beyond shelter walls. Harriet’s Haven for Pets provides educational resources for veterinary care, and supports temporary fostering options when needed through the Minnesota Pet Coalition (MNPC), of which Tubman is a founding member.
You can help make a difference for both people and pets by joining us at the Monastery’s Blessing of the Animals on Saturday, September 19. We are delighted to welcome representatives from Harriet’s Haven for Pets, who will share how their ministry helps survivors of domestic violence find safety without leaving their beloved animals behind.
As part of the event, we invite you to bring donations of new and unopened pet food, treats, toys, bedding, and other needed supplies. These simple gifts offer comfort, stability, and care to animals during a time of great transition. Together, we can extend the Benedictine spirit of hospitality beyond our own community and support families as they take important steps toward healing and hope.
In a world where many people face impossible choices, Harriet’s Haven for Pets offers a different message: safety should never require leaving a loved one behind. Through patience, compassion, and community support, this ministry continues to create a place of refuge where healing can begin—for people and pets alike.
