Starla.

At 7 years old, I will never forget when I got off the bus and saw momma sitting on the front porch with a new puppy in her lap. She was holding her like a little baby, all wrapped up in a blanket. Momma was just a smiling and beaming. She loved all animals, but this was our first inside dog. She and I sat there with a list of names until she came up with Starla. Starla’s name came from “star” and she was unknowingly a “star”in a dark time.

Besides her children, Starla, a Pomeranian Shih Tzu, was Sugie’s most beloved addition to the family. Sugie hid a little bit of money from each time she got paid for babysitting until she saved enough to buy her. This was a huge accomplishment. For the first time she made herself a priority and she bought herself something. Sugie loved Starla so much, they were inseparable. They loved cuddling together, sharing food, going outside to play and momma watching Starla lay in the sun.  

Sadly, Starla witnessed Sugie’s abuse. Once Sugie and Starla were separated through this tragedy, It was evident she missed her momma by her somber demeanor.  Starla and I were sent to live with different family members. Not only was Starla separated from Sugie, now she was separated from me. Starla was the bridge between me and the loss of my mother. Pets are the normalcy after a tragedy to help bridge the gap between loved ones and lost ones. My goal is to help bridge that gap.

Starla was a victim of domestic abuse. We understand how devastating it is for pets to be caught in the crossfire of domestic violence. 

Family pets are often unnoticed victims of domestic abuse. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 71% of women entering shelters reported that their batterer had injured, killed or  threatened to hurt their pet to psychologically control them or get revenge. Once victims leave, the  abuse of their pets often increases. That concern keeps people from leaving their batterer. Animal  cruelty is one of the earliest and most dramatic indicators that an individual may be developing a  pattern or seeking power and control through abusing others. When animals in a home are abused or neglected it is a warning sign that others in the household may be in danger. 

LOOKING for Community Partnerships 

The goal of this partnership is to provide long-term foster care for pets while domestic violence victims receive shelter assistance and ultimately reunite them with their loved ones. Currently, in Southeast Texas, only service and emotional support animals are  allowed at some domestic violence shelters. This foster program is an essential step in helping victims of  domestic violence feel confident in leaving an abusive situation knowing their pets will be safely fostered.   

We have partnered with (name) to establish a support system for victims and their pets to co-shelter  when leaving an abusive situation. The (name) and Sugie Lane Foundation share the same passion and  resolve to find ways to assist both people and pets suffering in domestic violence situations.

If you know someone or a shelter who would want to join me in the cause please contact us below.