When Domestic Violence Includes Pet Abuse
If you are a pet-lover, one of your best friends and sources of comfort may be a cat, dog, or other family pet. Animal lovers know that their pets provide some of the most companionable and satisfying bonds around—why else would so many treat their pets as though they are human children? So when an abusive partner targets your pet in order to manipulate you, it can be more than chilling: it can be heartbreaking.
A Common Control Tactic
Individuals who are abusive to companions also know how much their victims treasure their pets, and abusers use this information to terrorize, intimidate, and control. The relationship between domestic violence (DV) and pet abuse is striking, with research indicating that up to 75 percent of those in domestic violence shelters report that their pets had been threatened, harmed, or even killed by their abusers. Bewilderingly, children witnessed this pet abuse in nine out of ten cases.
Leaving Pets Feels Like a Betrayal
All too often victims of DV simply cannot imagine leaving their pets behind, dreading that abandoning a cherished animal would be a death sentence for the pet. Ergo, many victims stick with their abusers long after they would have liked to start a new life. In fact, 97 percent of those questioned said that keeping their pets with them is a major factor they consider when deciding whether to leave their abusers. A whopping 90 percent of DV victims confide that they rely on their pet for emotional support and/or physical protection, and their pets are central to their survival and recovery.
Tips to Keep Pets Safe
For anyone who wants to escape a dangerous abuser, but who fears leaving their pets behind, recognize that there are some shelters that allow pets. If there isn’t one near you, there are some options to consider if you have to part with your pet temporarily:
- Identify a trusted relative or friend who can help you by caring for your pet until you get on your feet.
- Keep an emergency bag for your pet ready to go, containing necessities like food, toys, vaccination records, and any medications they may need.
- Keep track of your pet’s health records so transitioning to a new home, veterinarian, or pet shelter will not leave gaps in the pet’s care.
- Make sure your abuser is not listed as a contact for the pet on microchips or collars.
The Legal Help You Need
If you are suffering domestic violence, please understand that you deserve better, and at The Law Office of Hasson D. Barnes we can help. To discuss your situation and the possibility of getting a protective order, schedule a confidential consultation with our Baltimore protective order lawyers today.
Source:
safehouse.org/pets-in-domestic-violence-situations/
