The Pet Mission
We place a pet with a child who has lost a parent, and we cover the adoption, the supplies, the food and the veterinary care for a full year. The family never receives a bill.
Something warm that does not need an explanation
Children who lose a parent spend a long time managing other people. They learn which answer makes the adults comfortable. They learn to say they are fine.
An animal asks for none of that. It needs feeding in the morning, which is a reason to get up. It sleeps against them at night, which is a reason to feel safe. It is glad to see them without being told to be.
This is not a substitute for grief support, and we never present it as one. It sits alongside Love Lives On as one more thing that is theirs.
From referral to a pet on the couch
Every placement follows the same five steps, in this order, and no step gets skipped.
The family applies
Any child enrolled in Love Lives On is eligible. Families outside the program can apply too. We ask about the household, allergies, housing and who will be the adult responsible.
We meet in person
A home visit, not an inspection. We talk through the honest realities of caring for an animal so the placement works for everyone, including the pet.
We match through partner rescues and shelters
We work with Lowcountry rescues and shelters to find an animal whose temperament and energy actually suit that child and that home. The child helps choose.
The starter kit arrives
Crate, bed, bowls, collar, leash, ID tag, toys, the first month of food, and a name tag the child fills in.
We carry the first year
Vaccinations, spay or neuter, microchip, a basic training class, food and supplies for twelve months, plus regular check ins from our team.
What one placement takes
These are planning estimates for a single placement, carried through the first full year.
Youngpreneur Academy
The Pet Mission is a partnership between Strive High Academy and Youngpreneur Academy, a youth entrepreneurship program serving the Lowcountry.
Visit youngp.orgPartner with the mission
We are looking for Lowcountry rescues, shelters, veterinary practices, trainers and pet retailers willing to offer reduced rate services or donated placements. One partner can double how many children we reach.
Get in touchPut a pet in a child’s arms.
Sponsor a full placement, cover one piece of it, or send an item straight from the wish list.