The occurrence of animal cruelty or threat of harm to the family pet can be found in the majority of domestic violence cases. When a family is embroiled in potentially violent behavior, the tension trickles down to the helpless pets.
This dynamic could be likened to the “butting order” observed in goats herds. One goat butts a weaker goat and that goat butts an even younger or weaker goat. In families with domestic violence, the father abuses the mother. This abuse overflows to at least one child, possibly the oldest. That child abuses a weaker or younger child who feeling powerless, kicks the dog or flings the cat.
Another reason a child might begin to abuse animals is because of sexual abuse. Because the child feels they have nowhere to turn, no one to tell of their trauma, they vent their frustration and hurt on the defenseless animal.
The family pets are possibly in the gravest danger when a woman indicates in anyway that she might be planning to leave an abusive situation. The batterer will use the animals as leverage to keep her in the abusive situation. He lets her know with words or actions that if she were to leave he would seriously abuse or even kill the family pets.
This tactic has worked with many women who love their pets so much that they could never leave them in such danger, even if it means having to stay in an abusive situation. Unfortunately, most domestic violence shelters can’t accept pets because of space limitations and other complications which might occur from living in such close quarters with other battered women who might also want to bring their pets which are also at risk.
The correlation of animal cruelty with domestic violence has come to the attention of Animal Abuse Prevention Agencies. As a result, they have dedicated a website with several meaningful links. So check them out. They are very impressive. It is hopeful to see such attention given to the issues surrounding domestic violence.
Because of a direct response to this problem, some women will be able to leave without fear of harm to their pets. The plan for safe haven for animals is addressed. If a woman wants to leave, a local animal shelter, or private boarding clinic will board the family pets until she can find a safe alternative for herself, her children and her pets.
Animal cruelty or neglect can also be a warning for another kind abuse, elder abuse. You can learn more about this kind of abuse by clicking on the link below.
Humane Society Webpage
Elder Abuse
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