In domestic violence cases, police are more likely to make arrests when pets are abused, too

Nearly two-thirds of U.S. households have at least one pet, and almost all see their pet as a family member.

Unfortunately, in homes where violence occurs, pets can also be victims of this harm. Research studies consistently support the link between animal cruelty and interpersonal violence.

The link with intimate partner violence, which is defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as abuse or aggression by a current or former spouse or dating partner, extends this connection. Animal cruelty is not only a recognized factor that predicts harming an intimate partner, but it can be used to perpetrate this violence. Link to full story can be found here.