Right now, animal shelters across Rhode Island are at a breaking point. Kennels are overflowing. Foster homes are full. Staff and volunteers are stretched thin. The heartbreaking reality is that more families are surrendering their beloved pets—not because they want to, but because financial hardship, inflation, and rising housing costs have left them with no other choice.

These are pets who have known love, warmth, and companionship. But without urgent action, many may face weeks or months in overcrowded conditions, or worse, euthanasia due to lack of space and resources. Our shelters are doing everything they can—but they cannot do it alone.

We need emergency funding from the state to help shelters expand capacity, provide veterinary care, and support pet food banks so families in crisis can keep their animals at home. Every pet rehomed because of financial strain is a preventable tragedy if we act now.

Rhode Island has a proud history of compassion for animals. But compassion without action is not enough. With targeted emergency funding, we can relieve overcrowding, prevent unnecessary surrenders, and keep more pets where they belong—by their owners’ sides.

This is not just an animal welfare issue—it’s a community issue. When pets stay with their families, shelters can focus on true emergencies, public health risks are reduced, and communities stay stronger and more connected.

We are calling on Rhode Island’s governor, state legislators, and local officials to immediately:

• Allocate emergency state funding for shelter operations and expansion.
• Support low-cost veterinary clinics and pet food assistance programs.
• Launch a public awareness campaign on resources for struggling pet owners.

Shelters are sounding the alarm, and the clock is ticking. Every day without action means more pets in distress. We have the power to change that—if we act together now.

Please sign this petition and urge our leaders to protect Rhode Island’s most vulnerable animals and the people who love them.