A recent study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association has revealed that victims of domestic violence are more likely to separate from their abusers when there is available support for their pets. The study details how the private sector, veterinarians, and community volunteers can contribute to providing this necessary support.
According to a press release by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), prior research in this field has shown that the pets of domestic violence victims often suffer abuse concurrently with their owners. However, most domestic violence shelters do not allow pets. The study states, "A significant percentage of survivors reported that concern for their pets’ welfare delayed their attempts to escape their abuser, keeping both human and animal survivors in continued danger."
The AVMA press release further mentions that programs in several states offer support to families trying to escape abusive situations with their pets. These services may include animal boarding at local animal shelters, kennels or veterinary clinics. However, as noted in the report, resources can become strained when demand for such support increases.
The AVMA press release also highlights an initiative launched by Hill’s Pet Nutrition in 2021 through a partnership with the YWCA Northeast Kansas’ Center for Safety and Empowerment in Topeka, Kansas. This program involved establishing a temporary housing scheme that provides immediate full-service care for pets belonging to survivors of domestic violence. Hill’s developed this program utilizing its own resources, an animal-care network and community volunteers.
According to the AVMA press release, the study focused on Hill's program from May 2021 to June 2023. During this period, 13 dogs and six cats owned by 13 individuals were referred to the program. Pearce, from Hill’s Pet Nutrition and lead author of the paper said in the press release: "The major hurdles that these programs often run into are small teams and limited financial and people resources." She added: "Having the support of a large company with a defined focus on animal welfare allowed us the provision of financial resources for supplies such as pet food, vet care, and access to a large employee pool of people who care about animals and who could serve as foster volunteers."
