There’s a correlation between pet abuse and domestic violence–dogs, cats, livestock & other domesticated animals. Relevant statistics on domestic violence and animal abuse include:

• 52 % of victims in domestic violence shelters leave their pets with their batterers
• Up to 65 % of domestic violence victims are unable to escape their abusers because they are concerned about what will happen to their pets when they leave
• 71% of pet-owning women entering women’s shelters reported that their batterer had injured, maimed, killed or threatened family pets for revenge or to psychologically control victims
• A Texas study found that batterers who also abuse pets are more dangerous and use more violence and controlling behaviors than those who do not harm animals!

There’s indicators that if he/she is abusing the cat or dog, there’s a strong link to child abuse & assault!

WHY DO ABUSERS BATTER ANIMALS?

• To demonstrate power and control over the family
• To isolate the victim and children
• To enforce submission
• To perpetuate an environment of fear
• To prevent the victim from leaving or coerce her to return
• To punish for leaving or showing independence

What Victims Can Do?

• Tell Law Enforcement
• Add Pet(s) to the Protective Order (now allowed in Texas!)
• Include pets in the Safety Plan

WHAT YOU CAN DO!

• Foster a pet when the victim goes to the domestic violence shelter
• Incorporate in school programs education about this issue–particularly those that might reach children at risk of family violence
• Support the Family Shelter with your gifts or Donate to www.redrover.org who helps with boarding grants!