The Library
Field noteDomestic violence1 minute read
Pets and domestic abuse
When animals are used to control or hurt you.
Abusers sometimes threaten or harm pets to control their partners. Some people stay in abusive homes because they fear leaving their animals behind.
Signs
- Threats to hurt, give away or kill a pet
- Actually harming a pet
- Neglecting a pet deliberately
Options
- Some services offer temporary foster care for pets of people fleeing abuse
- Some refuges accept pets
- Include your pets in your safety plan
Ask a local domestic abuse service what is available near you.
