Did You Know? Animal Abuse & Domestic Violence Are Correlated

October15, 2013: Animal Abuse & Domestic Violence

DVAM:

Did You Know?

Did you know that 71% of pet-owning women entering domestic violence shelters reported that their batterer had injured, maimed, killed, or threatened family pets for revenge or to psychologically control victims?*  

Between 25% and 40% of battered women are unable to escape abusive situations because they worry about what will happen to their pets or livestock should they leave.

*Statistics found at:  www.americanhumane.org/interaction/support-the-bond/fact-sheets/understanding-the-link.html.

What can we do?

 Get Educated. 

 Raise awareness about the connection of animal abuse and domestic violence – Attend this weekend’s K-9 Krawl! 

 Include discussions of animal safety when working with victims of domestic violence and stalking. 

  • Include questions about the presence of pets and their welfare to shelter intake questionnaires, risk/lethality assessments and safety planning.
  • Help your clients to prove ownership of their animals (e.g., ensure the victim’s name is listed on any registrations or licenses). 
  • Help victims to retrieve animals left behind.
  • Help victims find pet-friendly transitional and permanent housing.
  • When victims can no longer care for their pets, make referrals to animal adoption agencies.