A Hidden Barrier to Safety: Pets and Intimate Partner Violence
Alternatives for Women understands how important pets are to survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). For many, pets are more than just animals; they are family, providing comfort and companionship when everything else feels like it’s falling apart. Survivors have such a strong bond with their pets, and they’re often a huge source of comfort and strength during tough times. Worrying about their pets’ safety can make it even harder for survivors to leave an abusive relationship. It’s heartbreaking that this connection can be used against them, creating even more barriers to escaping abuse. Supporting survivors means recognizing these challenges and helping them find safety for themselves and their pets.
Pets and Power
Intimate Partner Violence, Animal Abuse, and Shelter: Exploring the Canadian Landscape hosted by the Centre for Research and Education on Violence Against Women and Children at Western University highlighted just how closely linked these issues are . One key takeaway was that abusers often harm or threaten pets as a way to stop survivors from leaving. It’s terrifying to think about; not just worrying about your own safety but also the safety of a beloved pet. Research shows that 89% of women in domestic violence shelters reported that their pet was mistreated, and 56% of women delayed leaving their abuser out of concern for their pet’s safety. These numbers highlight how big of an issue this is.
Programs that Help
Thankfully, there are programs like SafePet Ontario that help by finding temporary homes for pets. SafePet works with foster families and veterinary clinics to care for pets while survivors receive the support they need. Knowing your pet is safe can make all the difference when trying to escape an abusive situation. While programs like SafePet are lifesaving, there is still a lack of awareness about these services. Even more concerning is the increasing demand for them. As more survivors seek safety, the need for foster families and resources grows, making it clear that while these programs are critical, they need more support and visibility to keep up with the demand.
Expanding Shelter Options for Survivors and Their Pets
Even with programs like SafePet, there’s still a major problem: most shelters in Canada don’t allow pets. According to Western University’s research on IPV and animal abuse, only a few shelters are equipped to accommodate pets. This creates a heartbreaking situation for survivors, who are often forced to make an impossible choice, either stay in an unsafe environment with their pets or leave them behind to seek help. At Alternatives for Women, we believe that working towards ending violence against women also means creating safe spaces where survivors and their pets can find shelter together. With more resources and funding, more shelters could provide this crucial support, allowing survivors to stay with their pets while they begin their journey to safety and healing.
Why this Matters
Pets are an important part of people’s lives, and their safety matters too. By advocating for pet-friendly shelters, building partnerships with animal organizations, and raising awareness about the connection between IPV and animal abuse, we can work towards a future where no one has to choose between their safety and their beloved pets. To make this happen, we need your help. Support pet-friendly shelter initiatives, donate to organizations that care for pets in crisis, or get involved in raising awareness about this issue in your community. Together, we can help make sure survivors and their pets can escape abuse and find the safety and support they deserve.
Learn More
To learn more about SafePet Ontario, visit www.safepet.ca.
Intimate Partner Violence, Animal Abuse, and Shelter: Exploring the Canadian Landscape webinar, hosted by the Centre for Research and Education on Violence Against Women and Children at Western University. You can find the full webinar here: Intimate Partner Violence, Animal Abuse, and Shelter: Exploring the Canadian Landscape
