The Link
When a family lives within the shadow of domestic abuse, it is rarely only the human members of the family who are affected.
Did you know?
- A 1997 survey found that out of the 50 largest shelters for battered women in the United States, 85% of the women and 63% of the children entering shelters discussed incidents of pet abuse in their family.
- Three seperate studies have documented that from 18% to 40% of women seeking shelter at a crisis center reported that concern for the welfare of their pet prevented them from seeking shelter, in some cases for more than two months.
Why do batterers target family pets?
- To exert power and control over the family
- To coerce the victim to stay
- To punish the family
- To make the family keep secrets
- To teach submission
Pet abuse is family violence...help break the cycle of abuse.