Who We Help

Here at Chesapeake Humane Society (CHS), we believe in preserving the human-animal bond and keeping people with their pets during times of crisis. Whether you are experiencing domestic abuse, a housing crisis, or a medical emergency, we are here to help. Our crisis boarding program provides temporary boarding and medical care for pets of families experiencing hardship. Our program is open to dogs, cats, and small animals. Boarding is subject to available housing at the shelter or foster home availability, so there may be some pets that we cannot accommodate or there may be a waiting period.

Domestic Violence: Domestic violence affects both people and their pets. Seventy-one percent of domestic violence victims have reported that their abuser has threatened, harmed, or killed their pet and many people stay in abusive homes due to fear of losing their pet. CHS is committed to changing that uncertainty into assurance and providing long-term solutions in times of crisis through our life-saving partnerships with The YWCA South Hampton Roads, The Samaritan House, and the H.E.R. Shelter. Click here to learn more about our partnerships and for Domestic Violence assistance. 

Housing Crisis: Short-term homelessness affects people who are experiencing house fires, flooding, or eviction. Finding temporary, pet friendly places to stay while also dealing with a personal crisis is a challenging and scary thing. We aim to ease your burden while we provide your pet with temporary boarding and care until you are able to find more permanent housing. 

Medical Emergency: When unexpected medical emergencies, surgeries, or illnesses arise, many people are unable to care for their pets. Our crisis boarding program supports families experiencing medical emergencies by providing their pets with temporary boarding and care.