The H.E.L.P. Program provides short-term pet housing for Arlington County or Falls Church City residents facing a health or housing crisis.

Temporary housing is available for up to two weeks. Approval is based on space and capacity at the shelter.
Common Situations We Assist With:
- Emergency home evacuation (fire, flood, natural disaster)
- Unexpected hospitalization
- Domestic abuse admission into a shelter
Before Applying:
We encourage pet owners to first explore options with friends, family, or local boarding facilities.
Program Requirements:
- All animals in the H.E.L.P. Program must be spayed or neutered. If you choose not to have your pet altered, they will not be eligible for the program.
- If a pet's vaccinations are expired, they can receive updated vaccinations at the shelter
- Some pets may be placed in a temporary foster home during their stay.
For more information and assistance, please call our Pet Resource Center at (703) 931-9241.