Purina has partnered with actress and advocate Mariska Hargitay to unveil "Courageous Together," a new statue by renowned artist Kristen Visbal. Depicting a woman and her dog connected by a purple leash, the statue symbolizes survivors leaving their abuser, part of the Purple Leash Project initiative. The project aims to make more domestic violence shelters pet-friendly, recognizing the crucial role pets play in helping survivors.
Currently, fewer than 20% of domestic violence shelters in the U.S. accommodate pets, forcing survivors to make heart-wrenching choices. Hargitay, a pet lover herself, emphasizes the vital support pets provide and the importance of not having to leave them behind.
The statue, publicly unveiled in Times Square, confronts the harsh reality of domestic violence and the challenges survivors face. Purina plans to tour the statue across the country, starting at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. By raising awareness, Purina aims to drive change in domestic violence services to ensure no survivor has to choose between safety and their pet.
Visbal sees the statue as empowering survivors to step out with their pets and begin the healing process together. The Purple Leash Project, a partnership between Purina and RedRover, provides resources to make shelters pet-friendly. Since 2019, they have granted 48 shelters with support. For more information or to donate, visit Purina.com/Together.
