At Pets4Life Louisville, we believe in starting with compassion, curiosity, and connection.
As we began our work in the 40210 zip code—an area that has long been underserved and overlooked—we knew we needed to take our time and listen first.
This past year, with support from PetSmart Charities and the Institute for Human-Animal Connection (IHAC), we held focus groups, conducted surveys, and connected with over 200 community members. What we heard was honest, emotional, and deeply motivating.
🐾 What We Heard
Pets are family.
More than 80% of the people we surveyed are pet owners who described their pets as sources of comfort, love, and joy—but many shared the stress of not being able to afford or access care.
Barriers are real.
High costs, transportation challenges, limited internet access, and few nearby vet clinics make care out of reach for many. Some know where to go—but can’t get there.
People want to learn.
Top topics of interest: behavioral training, pet nutrition, and pet insurance. Families want to care for their pets—they just need support.
Safety matters.
Stray and aggressive animals were mentioned often. Families want help managing behavior and improving safety for everyone.
💙 What We Learned
There are no shortcuts to sustainable change. It takes time, trust, and presence—not just once, but again and again.
We’re not here to “fix” communities; we’re here to walk alongside them, to listen, learn, and co-create real solutions.
Through pop-up clinics, free pet food events, and ongoing outreach, we’re building relationships that last beyond a single visit.
🤝 We Need People Like You
As we move into the next phase of our work in 40210, we need help from people who care—people ready to get involved, listen, and connect.
🐾 Join our team of changemakers.
Volunteer or partner with us to make a difference one family, one pet at a time.
📣 Spread the word.
Follow us on Facebook and help us grow our community to reach more families in need.
💙 Together, we can build a future where every pet is cared for and every family feels supported.