Remembering Pets During Domestic Violence Awareness Month

 

They are the victims without voices.  Some might bark, others meow or some tweet a song. They are the pets suffering due to domestic violence.

According to aspca.org, a study conducted by The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reveled that 85.4 % of women and 63% of children reported incidents of pet abuse after arriving at domestic violence shelters.

Why do abusers target pets?

• 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

 

How can you help your local Domestic Violence center like Transitions assist victims and their pets?

• Encourage victims to include their pets in their safety plan

• Consider opening your home as a temporary foster home while a victim is in safe housing

• Advocate with local boarding kennels, shelters or veterinary hospitals to offer reduced rates or free emergency boarding for victims

Submitted by Sara L.