Often abusers use a beloved family pet as a means to control and terrorize victims. There are resources available that help with vet care; food; and shelters that accept pets. Fostering programs that allow families to have their pet back when in a safe environment are essential to solving this critical problem and helping people heal.

Resources:

Home – RedRover

Purple Leash Project | Purina

Home – SAF-T Program

Saving Pets (and Yourself) from Domestic Violence

Pet Safety During Domestic Violence | The Hotline

Pet-Friendly Housing and Survivors of Domestic Violence | Housing and Pets | ASPCA

Training & Resources – Refuge4Pets | Domestic Abuse & Animal Abuse

Articles:

Part of the Family: Children’s Experiences with Their Companion Animals in the Context of Domestic Violence and Abuse | Journal of Family Violence

Domestic abuse refuges not accepting women’s pets, research finds

Companion Animals and Domestic Violence | SpringerLink

(PDF) Animal cruelty, pet abuse & violence: the missed dangerous connection