BEFORE: Stay SAFE and prepare.
Identify a safe place for them (room with a lock, a relative/friend’s house they can go to for help, a nearby police station, etc.).
Develop a code word that indicates they should call for help or go to a safe place.
Talk to a lawyer who specializes in domestic violence/custody law and confirm you are not violating any custody/kidnapping laws.
Ask a family member or friend if they can take care of your pet(s) at their house, or regularly take the pet(s) for walks.
Gather paperwork that shows ownership of a pet (vet records, a license, etc.).
If you must leave without your pet, attempt to place the pet in the care of a trusted friend/relative or leave enough food, bedding, and water for the pet.