What Is Emergency Shelter for Pets?
Emergency shelter is intended for pets whose owners are temporarily unable to care for them due to unforeseen personal circumstances, such as hospitalization. The service is designed for situations where there is no friend, family member, or support network available to help. The owner remains the legal owner of the animal throughout the shelter period, and the goal is for the pet to return home once circumstances improve.
It's important to note that emergency shelter is not:
- A response to animal neglect or mistreatment.
- A permanent surrender of a pet.
- A pet-sitting service for holidays, travel, or planned absences.
Emergency Shelter for Dogs
Residents who need temporary emergency care for their dog can contact Dierenbescherming Mechelen. Assistance is available for people who meet the emergency shelter criteria, with arrangements made according to each individual's situation.
For people receiving support from the OCMW, emergency shelter arrangements may be coordinated through their social worker, with costs and shelter duration assessed on a case-by-case basis. Other eligible residents can also use the service by making direct arrangements with the organisation.
Emergency Shelter for Cats
For cats, Leuven collaborates with Zwerfkat in Leuven, which assesses emergency shelter requests individually. Availability and duration are discussed between the organisation and the pet owner, ensuring the best possible outcome for both the animal and its family.
Support for Stray Cats and Kittens
Leuven actively supports the welfare of stray cats through partnerships focused on neutering, feeding, and care programmes. Some situations require immediate intervention, particularly when animals are vulnerable or at risk.
Immediate assistance may be needed for:
- Seriously injured stray cats.
- Pregnant stray cats.
- Kittens living on the street.
These animals can be placed in foster care, where they receive medical attention, socialisation, and support in finding permanent homes. In urgent cases, Zwerfkat in Leuven can be contacted through its emergency service.
What To Do If You Find Injured Wildlife
As Leuven becomes greener and more nature-friendly, encounters with wild animals are becoming increasingly common. In many situations, wildlife should be left undisturbed and allowed to follow its natural course. However, intervention may be necessary when an animal is injured, trapped, or creating a dangerous situation.
Examples include:
- Animals trapped in fences, buildings, or other structures.
- Wildlife injured by vehicles or accidents.
- Animals causing dangerous traffic situations because they are frightened or disoriented.
If the animal causes dangerous (traffic) situations, call PZ Leuven on 016 210 610 or 101.
If possible, catch the animal yourself and transfer it yourself to an approved bird and mammal sanctuary.
If you cannot catch the animal or transfer it to a shelter, you can call the emergency number of Animal Rescue Service: 0499 89 98 99.
If a wild animal presents an immediate safety risk, residents should contact the Leuven police. When possible, animals can also be transported directly to a recognised wildlife rehabilitation centre. If assistance is needed with capture or transport, the Animal Rescue Service can help.
For uncertain cases, such as minor injuries, residents can contact the Animal Rescue Service for advice and assessment before an intervention takes place.
When Emergency Shelter Does Not Apply
Many animal welfare organisations receive requests that fall outside the definition of emergency shelter. Common examples include:
Going on Holiday
If you're travelling for business or leisure and cannot find someone to care for your pet, this is not considered emergency shelter. In these cases, Leuven recommends arranging care through friends, family, or a recognised pet boarding facility.
Long Working Hours
If you regularly need someone to care for your pet during workdays, emergency shelter is not the appropriate solution. Alternative support services, pet sitters, or local volunteer initiatives may be better suited to ongoing care needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
I Found a Stray Cat That Looks Unwell. Should I Use the Emergency Number?
The emergency service is primarily intended for serious injuries and urgent situations. Less urgent concerns can still be reported, but priority may be given to more critical cases. Non-urgent reports can also be submitted through the organisation's regular communication channels.
My Own Cat Needs Urgent Medical Care. Can I Call the Stray Cat Emergency Line?
No. The emergency number is intended only for stray cats in urgent need. Owners should contact their regular veterinarian or an emergency veterinary service for their own pets.
Can Someone Remove a Stone Marten?
Stone martens are protected animals in Flanders. Rather than removing them, experts recommend discouraging their presence and taking preventive measures to make properties less attractive to them. Injured or trapped martens can be assisted by the Animal Rescue Service and transferred to an approved wildlife rescue centre.
What About Injured Pigeons?
Not every pigeon requires professional intervention. Birds that appear dazed after flying into a window often recover when placed in a ventilated cardboard box for a few hours. Ringed pigeons may have registered owners who can be contacted. Birds with visible injuries may need assessment by city services or the Animal Rescue Service, depending on the situation and location.
A Helpful Resource for International Residents
Navigating local animal welfare services can be challenging when you're new to Belgium. Knowing the difference between emergency shelter, wildlife rescue, and routine pet care helps ensure animals receive the right support quickly. Leuven's approach focuses on animal welfare, responsible ownership, and providing practical assistance during unexpected life events.