For dog owners
Gather ownership records, vaccination history, medication details, behavior information, feeding instructions, emergency contacts, and an honest estimate of the care period.
Resources
Practical guidance for owners, fosters, referral partners, and communities.
Start here
For referral partners
Contact us as early as possible. Share only information needed to assess timing, safety, consent, transportation, and the dog’s care needs.
For foster volunteers
Prepare a separate decompression space, confirm household agreement, review pet introductions, and plan for routine and communication.
Forms & Applications
Need help, want to foster, volunteer, or refer someone? Visit our secure online forms and downloadable applications.
Need Temporary Help?
If you are facing a temporary crisis, start your request online.
Emergency and urgent situations
Immediate danger: Call 911.
Veterinary emergency: Contact a licensed veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic. Second Leash is not a veterinary provider and cannot replace urgent medical care.
Stray, abandoned, injured, or dangerous animal: Contact the appropriate city or county animal-control authority.
Domestic violence: Contact a qualified local or national domestic-violence service from a safe device. Do not disclose a survivor’s location publicly.
Prepare a temporary-care packet
- Proof of ownership or authority to arrange care
- Veterinary records and vaccine history
- Medication names, doses, and instructions
- Feeding routine and allergies
- Behavior history, triggers, bite history, and escape risks
- Microchip information
- Emergency contacts and authorized decision-makers
- Expected care period and communication plan