.

They're not abandoned.
They're waiting.

We keep dogs safe while their owners fight to come home.

Who We Help

Owners or family members of dogs whose humans are temporarily incarcerated

• Download Forms Here

Approved organizations or reentry programs

• Download Forms Here

Partnering jails looking to provide safe temporary housing for dogs

• Download Forms Here

How It Works

At Second Leash, our goal is simple: keep dogs safe and cared for while their humans navigate incarceration, with the hope of reuniting them when possible.1. Submit an Intake Form
Owners, family members, correctional staff, shelters, or approved partner organizations can submit a referral using the appropriate intake form.2. We Review the Request
Our team reviews the information about the dog and the situation to determine if we are able to provide temporary care.3. Coordination & Pickup
If approved, we coordinate with the owner, family, or referring organization to safely arrange pickup or transportation of the dog.4. Temporary Care
Dogs in our program receive safe housing, food, daily care, and veterinary attention if needed while their owner is incarcerated.5. Reunification
When the owner is released, we work to reunite the dog with their human whenever possible — giving both a true second leash on life.

5.8 million
pets enter shelters each year30%
are surrendered by owners597,000
animals euthanized annually

Every year, millions of pets enter animal shelters across the United States — many not because they are unwanted, but because their families are facing temporary hardships.For individuals navigating incarceration, rehab, or recovery, the fear of losing a beloved pet can be devastating. Many dogs enter shelters simply because their owner has no safe place for them during these critical periods of transition.Second Leash exists to change that.By providing temporary care for dogs whose owners are experiencing incarceration, rehabilitation, or recovery, we help keep dogs out of shelters, reduce strain on local animal services, and give families the chance to reunite when their situation improves.Because sometimes all a dog — and their human — needs is a second chance.

Dogs shouldn't lose their homes because their owners are facing a difficult chapter.Second Leash provides temporary care for dogs whose owners are incarcerated so they can be reunited when their human returns.Your donation helps provide food, care, and safe placement for these dogs.Support the mission ----->100% of donations go directly toward the care and safety of the dogs we serve.