Unbreakable Bonds: Understanding Domestic Violence and Pets

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a crucial time to raise awareness about the impacts of domestic violence (DV) on both victims and their pets. At the Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA, we understand that domestic violence affects both the immediate victims and their animal companions, and the lack of resources available to victims’ pets can create additional barriers to leaving abusive situations. Recognizing these connections is essential to protecting both people and animals from harm and breaking the cycle of abuse.

The Relationship Between Domestic Violence and Pets



The connection between domestic violence and animal cruelty is significant. According to the Urban Resource Institute (URI), perpetrators of domestic violence frequently exploit this connection by threatening or harming a victim’s pet to manipulate and control them. This tactic is often used to keep victims from leaving or to punish them if they attempt to escape.

Many domestic violence victims delay seeking help, return to their abuser, or avoid seeking assistance altogether because they fear for their pets' safety. In fact, a survey of 12 studies found that between 18-48% of survivors either delayed leaving or returned to the abuser due to concerns for their pets’ welfare, according to RedRover. This fear is often well-founded, as up to 89% of pet-owning women entering domestic violence shelters reported that their abuser had harmed or threatened their pets, based on data from the Humane Society of the United States.

Important to note, while domestic violence is most commonly thought of as male-on-female abuse, it can take many forms, including female-on-male, male-on-male, and female-on-female violence. Abuse can be physical, emotional, or financial, and according to data from the peer-reviewed Partner Abuse journal, 22% of individuals have been assaulted by a partner at least once in their lifetime.

The Emotional Bond Between Pets and Survivors

For many survivors, pets are more than just animals; they are family members who provide emotional support during incredibly challenging times. The fear of losing their pets or having them harmed can deter individuals from leaving abusive relationships. Pets offer a sense of normalcy and comfort, making their safety integral to the overall well-being of survivors.

Barriers to Seeking Help for Survivors and Their Pets

For survivors of domestic violence, the need for alternative housing becomes urgent. However, many face significant barriers when trying to leave. Financial abuse, a common tactic in abusive relationships, limits survivors' financial independence and reduces their ability to find safe, pet-friendly accommodations. According to the National Network to End Domestic Violence, financial abuse is present in nearly 98% of abusive relationships, leaving survivors without the resources to escape.

Additionally, many domestic violence shelters are not equipped to house pets, meaning survivors are often forced to choose between their own safety and the safety of their animals. The shortage of pet-friendly emergency housing creates an impossible situation for those who depend on their pets for emotional support.

The Role of Shelters in Protecting Both Ends of the Leash

While the SPCA does not currently offer temporary housing for pets of survivors, we recognize how critical this service is. The safety of survivors and their pets is a priority, and with the right fundraising efforts, the SPCA hopes to explore this option in the future. However, the underfunding associated with the city and county contract limits our capacity to expand services at this time. With adequate support, the SPCA could address the urgent need for pet-friendly housing options in situations of domestic violence.

Animal shelters across the country are increasingly playing a vital role in helping survivors escape by offering temporary housing for their pets. While many shelters weren’t originally designed to accommodate pets, more facilities are adapting to include pets in their care plans, recognizing the deep bond between people and animals.

How You Can Help

Supporting survivors and their pets involves collective effort. Here’s how you can make a difference:

• Raise Awareness: Share information about the connection between domestic violence and pets to help more people understand the unique challenges faced by survivors.
• Support Pet-Friendly Shelters: Donate to or volunteer with organizations that provide shelter for both survivors and their pets.
• Advocate for Policy Changes: Encourage local shelters and policymakers to prioritize creating pet-friendly accommodations for those escaping domestic violence.
• Share Resources: Ensure survivors in your community know where to find support.

Resources

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence and needs support for their pets, the following resources are available:

Resources for Those Experiencing DV:

• The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800.799.SAFE (7233)
• Virginia Sexual & Domestic Violence Action Alliance
• Red Rover Resources

Animal Specific Resources for Pet Retention: 

• The SPCA Pet Food Pantry: Provides essential pet food supplies to those in need.
• Companion Animal Fund Partnership with Loaves and Fishes: Assists pet owners in obtaining food through their pet food pantry program.
• Dogs Deserve Better – No Empty Bowls Event: A monthly event offering pet food assistance, usually held on the first Saturday of each month in various locations.
• Shenandoah Valley Animal Services Center – Community Assistance Pet Pantry: Located in Augusta County, this pantry provides pet food support for families in need.

Conclusion

At the SPCA, we have a vision of a caring community where every animal thrives, and we know that caring for animals means caring for people too. The bond between a pet and its owner is strong, and what impacts one end of the leash often affects the other. By working together to raise awareness, provide resources, and advocate for change, we can help ensure that no survivor—whether human or animal—has to face abuse in silence. With the right support and funding, the SPCA hopes to expand its services and ensure both ends of the leash are protected. Let's create a world where pets and their people are safe, supported, and empowered to live healthy, fulfilling lives.