For many people, pets serve as cherished companions, beloved family members, and sources of comfort, often forming strong emotional bonds. However, abusive partners may exploit this bond by threatening harm to pets as means of controlling and manipulating their victims. If a victim of domestic violence is faced with the choice of leaving the home, they are forced to question the safety of their pet if they leave. It can be hard to understand why someone would choose their pet over their own safety. When a survivor has endured abuse for some time, they can really form a strong connection with the animals that they care for and some have said that they would rather die than to leave that animal behind. This is testament to an unbreakable bond and a relationship that has kept them going through an already stressful time.
It poses a great financial constraint to have to pay for a pet-friendly hotel or boarding options. It can feel like a burden to ask your friends and family to take this pet in. And this emotional dilemma is compounded with the lack of shelters having the capacity and resources to be able to house animals, leaving victims with few options for leaving that ensures safety for both them and their pets.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please contact the 24/7 Helpline or find a shelter near you.
GA Hotline: 1-800-33HAVEN
National Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE
Breaking Silence Teen Textline: 706-765-8019
Resources:
Ahimsa House
24-Hour Crisis Line: 404-452-6248
Red Rover
National Coalition Against Domestic Violence
24 Hour Crisis Line: 1-800-799-7233