Remembering Pets During Domestic Violence Awareness Month

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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.
 

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