10804 McConnell Rd, Woodstock, IL 60098

(815) 337-5563

info@hahs.org

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Supporting Survivors Of Domestic Violence

By Helping Protect The Animals They Love

The Hooved Animal Humane Society (HAHS) launched a new initiative in 2026 to support survivors of domestic violence by helping ensure the safety of their horses.

For many survivors, concern for a horse’s well-being can be a powerful barrier to leaving an unsafe situation. Through this initiative, HAHS quietly and compassionately works to address that concern when possible, so survivors are not forced to choose between safety and the animals they love.

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Horses Can Be Part Of Coercive Control

Threats or harm involving animals—especially horses that require specialized care—can be used to isolate, intimidate, or control survivors. The fear of what may happen to a horse left behind often delays or prevents someone from leaving an abusive environment.

At HAHS, protecting horses has always been our mission. This initiative extends that mission by helping survivors navigate horse-related safety concerns during a critical time.

How HAHS Can Help

Confidential Equine Support

We offer discreet, horse-focused support conversations to help assess immediate needs and explore possible next steps.

Temporary Planning For Horses

When feasible and appropriate, HAHS may assist with short-term care planning for horses to support a survivor’s safety plan.

Coordination With Advocates

We work in partnership with domestic violence centers and advocates to ensure horse-related concerns are handled thoughtfully and safely.

Support is subject to capacity and safety considerations.

Your Privacy And Safety Come First


We understand that online activity may be monitored. Please contact your local domestic violence center and ask them to reach out to HAHS on your behalf.

HAHS does not share information without care and discretion.

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Request Confidential Equine Support

If it is safe to do so, you may contact us through your local domestic violence support center.  Please provide them with the following information so that they can share it with us:

  • First name or initials

  • Safe email address

  • County or general location (no address)

  • Number of horses

  • Timeframe (urgent / soon / planning)

  • Message (optional)

  • Is it safe for HAHS to contact you by email.

 

Information For Domestic Violence Centers And Advocates

HAHS welcomes collaboration with domestic violence support centers, advocates, and service providers. If equine safety is a barrier for a survivor you are assisting, we encourage you to contact us to discuss horse-specific options and coordination.

Help Keep Horses — And Families — Safe

This initiative is supported entirely through community generosity. Donations help offset the costs of emergency equine care planning, feed, veterinary services, transportation assistance, and temporary support when feasible.

General Questions And Answers

Q: Is this program confidential?

Yes. Requests are handled with discretion and care.

No. HAHS is an equine welfare organization. We focus solely on horse-related needs and coordinate with domestic violence professionals for survivor services.

This initiative focuses exclusively on horses.

Capacity may vary, but we will still work with advocates to explore planning and referral options.

Please contact a center that specializes in domestic violence support and ask them to reach out to HAHS.

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.