C. Octubre, 2014.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GUIDANCE. SEPT, 2014
Extract:
Experts estimate that between 48-71% of battered women have pets that also have been abused or killed (Ascione, et al, 2007). Moreover, pet abuse is one of the forms of intimidation listed in the power and control wheel used by domestic violence victim advocates. Abusers threaten, injure, and at times kill pets in order to control their victims and to create an environment of fear within the home.
The close relationship that battered women and their children feel toward their companion animals complicates their willingness to leave a violent situation, potentially putting their pets at risk of violence or death. From various studies we know that approximately 2-48% of women have refused to leave a dangerous situation for fear of their pets’ safety (Carlisle‐Frank, Frank & Nielsen, 2004; Ascione, 2007).
Some survivors have reported living in their cars with their pets rather than leaving them behind. Staff at domestic violence shelters has also found that children may experience additional trauma when separated from beloved pets (Flynn, 2000).
Conclusion:
Companion animals play a crucial role in the lives of families, especially those in crisis where abusers use that bond againsttheir victims, in the process causing suffering to humans and animals alike. Thus it is urgent that all advocates on behalf of domestic violence survivors be acquainted with the role of animal abuse in the cycle of family violence and with the resources that are available to help those families get themselves and their pets.
Source:
http://www.vawnet.org/Assoc_Files_VAWnet/NRCDV_TAG-AnimalAbuse-IPV-Sept2014.pdf
