Working to Raise Awareness of Domestic Abuse
Purina and our partners are raising awareness about how domestic abuse affects people and pets as well as the need to create more safe spaces. It takes great courage to leave an abuser, and the ability to find a pet-friendly shelter can be the difference between triumph and tragedy.
Honoring Paige DeSorbo’s Courage
TV personality, bestselling author, and podcast host Paige DeSorbo was awarded the Courage Award, presented by Purina, at the 2026 Variety Power of Women event.
As an advocate for survivors of domestic abuse, DeSorbo shared her story and used her platform to remind survivors they are not alone. She and her cat, Daphne, have shown how the special bond between a survivor and their pet can be vital to the healing journey. We congratulate Paige as she joins previous honorees actor Sarah Hyland and gymnast Aly Raisman.
Raising Awareness for Domestic Abuse Survivors & Their Pets Through The Power of Art
Purina joined with renowned artist Kristen Visbal to design an inspiring sculpture depicting an abuse survivor and her beloved dog taking a courageous first step together. Actor Mariska Hargitay helped unveil the sculpture, entitled Courageous Together, in New York City. It toured the country in 2024 to raise awareness of why pets are a crucial part of the conversation around domestic violence.
Kristen’s Inspiration
“The widespread impact of domestic violence is evidenced by startling, somber statistics,” says artist Kristen Visbal. “Through the creation of these sculptures portraying the bravery and bond between people and their pets, we hope to inspire survivors to walk away with courage and their pets in tow. I want everyone –directly or indirectly affected–to join in supporting the cause to ensure more places exist where survivors and pets can take the first step away from their abuser and toward a brighter future, together.”