Purina has partnered with actor and domestic abuse survivor Sarah Hyland to launch the "Courageous Together Collection," a line of merchandise for pet owners and their pets with all proceeds supporting RedRover's Purple Leash Project. The collection is available exclusively at shop.PurpleLeashProject.com.
The collaboration aims to raise awareness that fewer than 20% of domestic violence shelters accept pets, often forcing survivors to choose between their safety and their animals. Hyland, who received the first-ever Variety Courage Award presented by Purina, drew from her personal experience as a survivor to curate the collection.
"I put a lot of reflection into the word courage — not just the courage it takes to wake up every morning and face the world despite feeling isolated and misunderstood, but the immense courage it takes to make the decision to leave an abusive situation in the first place," said Hyland. "Having my dog by my side provided comfort and strength during my darkest moments. This collection from Purina is so powerful because it's creating real change — funding shelter improvements so survivors can keep their pets with them during their journey to safety."
The merchandise line includes tote bags, matching human and pet sweatshirts, custom necklaces and bag charms. The jewelry pieces were created in partnership with Coastal Caviar, a cause-focused business specializing in custom charm jewelry.
"Sarah understands firsthand the comfort a pet can provide in our darkest days and wanted something to capture and celebrate that special connection through this collaboration," said Kelly Bozigian, founder of Coastal Caviar. "We've paired on-trend pieces with the powerful, purple leash motif to make something we hope inspires wearers long after October."
Since 2019, Purina and RedRover have provided more than 55 Purple Leash Project grants to help domestic violence shelters nationwide become pet-friendly facilities.
"We are thankful for survivors like Sarah who are willing to share their stories and inspire advocacy and support for survivors with pets who deserve the opportunity to escape and heal together," said Nina Leigh Krueger, CEO of Purina. "We hope the Courageous Together Collection inspires more conversations about the impact of domestic violence on society and the importance of protecting the incredible bond between survivors and their pets."
The initiative coincides with Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October. More information about the Purple Leash Project is available at Purina.com/Courage.
According to Petfood Industry's Top Pet Food Companies, Nestlé Purina PetCare manufactures, markets and distributes pet food, treats and cat litter, primarily known for brands like Purina Pro Plan, Dog Chow, Friskies and Beneful. It is a subsidiary of Nestlé, the global food company, and is considered one of the leading pet care brands worldwide.
