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.
- Explore the American Humane Association’s website and fact sheet about the link between animal abuse and family violence: www.americanhumane.org/interaction/support-the-bond/fact-sheets/understanding-the-link.html.
Raise awareness about the connection of animal abuse and domestic violence – Attend this weekend’s K-9 Krawl!
- For more information, download the flyer: http://fairfaxdvcommunity.org/files/documents/K-9Krawlflyer2013final.pdf or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/survey/k9krawl.htm to register.
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.