Pet Retention Resources

Pet ownership isn’t always just a walk in the park! Dogs and their owners face real challenges that can sometimes make it difficult to keep your furry family member around. If you are having difficulty caring for your dog for any reason but want to work to stay together, use the links and tips below or reach out to us.

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“My lease or neighborhood association won’t allow me to have my dog.”

When laws or ordinances come between you and your pet, make sure you know your rights and that you do everything you can to stay together.

  • Unable to keep your pet due to your lease? Read up about the possibilities within the Americans with disabilities act if it may apply to you or someone in your household. See their Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals booklet to learn more.

  • Please be aware that local communities breed specific legislations are no longer legal in the state of Michigan. Read more here.

“I can’t keep my dog because he has too many behavioral issues”

Aggression and other behavioral issues are not usually permanent. With some basic training, most dogs who are having behavioral issues can make major improvements. Another possibility is that your dog is trying to tell you something is wrong, so make sure to visit the vet to rule out medical problems as a cause. If neither gives results, contact a behavioralist. For general advice about how to manage a household with a difficult dog, contact us - we will do our best to connect you with the resources to best address your specific problems.

“I Can’t afford to care for my dog anymore.”

When the cost of pet care is too much to handle, there are a number of resources available to Detroit residents.

Pet Food Programs:

  • Dog Aide: provides dog food, daily care items, education on proper pet care, and assistance with free spay/neuter to pet owners facing financial hardship in Detroit.

  • MHS Pet Pantry: pet food for qualifying low-income families in the metro Detroit area.

Spay/Neuter Programs:

  • Project Grace: collaborative initiative between Dog Aide and Bark Nation providing free spay and neuter for owned dogs.

  • MHS Sterilization Program: limited free or discounted spay and neuter procedures to pet owners in metro Detroit.

Emergency Veterinary Financing:

  • Care Credit: credit financing for veterinary procedures of all kinds.

Other:

  • C.H.A.I.N.E.D., Inc.: assists low-income dog owners of 24/7 chained dogs by providing free, life-enhancing supplies & services.