*Skipper and *Bianca

Escaping violence cannot always be planned, *Bianca didn't have much notice for the day she had to move out and leaving her pet *Skipper behind was not an option. Like many pet-parents, Skipper was more than just a furry companion but a provider of unconditional love, consistency and comfort.

"Skipper and I lived in a van. until the day it broke down beyond repair. So, I ended up staying with my partner at the time in his van. I didn't feel like I had any choice. Like every relationship, it started off lovely and everything I had was gone, apart from Skipper, so I thought, we'll give it a go.

It was a matter of days before he made it unbearable, picking on every little thing I did, a total narcissist. I tried to stand up for myself and Skipper but then he said, “Get your stuff and get out”. We were miles from anywhere. So, I ended up on a park bench frantically trying to find somewhere to go.

A friend put me on to Women's Refuge, thankfully they were able to help, and they mentioned Pet Refuge. I’d never even heard of Pet Refuge until then and I just thought what a fantastic idea, because that's all I was worried about because I can't have Skipper here and there's no way I'm giving her up.

She's the only thing I have. The one constant thing in my life is her. I mean she can be a pain in the butt, but she's the most gorgeous soul. I've always had her, wherever, whatever I'm doing, she's always not far away but it's given me the space to not worry about her and focus on what I need to do, and that's the main thing.

I'm getting there, I'm making progress. I hope I can have her back soon."

Thankfully with our nationwide transport service, we can be there to help pets no matter where they are in Aotearoa. From rural backroads to city centres [by road or sky] we cover all transport costs, ensuring every family and pet across both North and South Island has access to our services.