Free Happy Hour at The Royal to Discuss Pet-Inclusive Housing in Alexandria, Registration Required
Many animal shelters, including the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA), are seeing increases in the number of animals surrendered due to housing-related issues.
ALEXANDRIA, VA – As the affordable housing crisis continues to squeeze communities across the United States, another growing concern is emerging: the rising number of pets being surrendered to shelters due to housing-related challenges. The AWLA reports that an increasing number of families are being forced to give up their beloved cats and dogs—not because they want to, but because they have nowhere to live that will accept them.
At the heart of this issue is a critical shortage of pet-inclusive housing—rental units that welcome animals of all breeds, weights, and sizes without burdensome fees or breed restrictions. In many cases, pet owners are priced out of their homes or denied leases altogether due to pet-related clauses, leaving them with no choice but to relinquish their companions.
In response, AWLA is hosting a Pet-Inclusive Housing Discussion and Happy Hour to bring community members, policymakers, animal lovers, and special guests together for solutions-focused conversation. The event will take place on Thursday, May 29, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Royal Restaurant (730 N. St. Asaph St., Alexandria).
The event, sponsored by Humane World for Animals, is free to attend, but registration is required to ensure food and drink accommodations.
Organizers hope the evening will spark new collaborations and help reshape local housing policies to reflect a more compassionate and inclusive future—one where no one is forced to choose between a roof and their pet.
Not from Alexandria? Not to worry! Join us – the discussion should offer takeaways for anyone to start similar conversations in any community.
