Right now across Indiana, animal shelters are sounding the alarm. They're running out of space, out of resources, and out of time.

Families facing skyrocketing rents, job loss, and the rising cost of food and medicine are being forced to surrender their beloved pets. It’s heartbreaking. People aren’t giving up their animals because they want to—they’re doing it because they have no other choice.

Indiana’s shelters are now beyond capacity. Staff are overwhelmed. Volunteers are stretched thin. And the animals? Many are spending months in kennels without proper enrichment, love, or even consistent medical care.

We cannot let this crisis continue.

We’re calling on state lawmakers, local governments, and community foundations to allocate emergency funding to Indiana’s animal shelters and pet support services. This includes:

• Emergency grants to help families keep their pets at home during temporary financial crises
• Expanded veterinary support for shelters
• Partnerships with food banks and mutual aid groups to provide pet food and supplies

Helping animals doesn’t just save lives—it keeps families together. Pets are more than companions; they’re part of the family. When people are struggling, we should be offering help, not forcing them into impossible choices.

Other states have already created temporary relief funds or allocated pandemic-era dollars to help reduce shelter intakes. Indiana can do the same—if we raise our voices now.

If you believe Indiana should step up and protect our pets, our families, and the people who care for them, sign this petition. Together, we can make sure no one has to choose between feeding their family and keeping their furry friend.