Animals can be used as a way for domestic abusers to control their victims, however, many women’s refuges are unable to take pets alongside those who are fleeing abuse. Research conducted by Cats Protection found that out of 31 women’s refuges and domestic abuse organisations surveyed in Wales, none would take pets along with their owners escaping abuse. This highlights the need for “comprehensive support systems” that address all aspects of survivors’ lives, according to Welsh Women’s Aid.
Of the refuges surveyed, only 27% said they would consider allowing pets under “limited circumstances”. Although pets can be a source of comfort for those experiencing domestic abuse, they can also prevent them from accessing safety. One woman named Claudia said that she stayed with her ex-partner to protect her pets, as they acted as a way of controlling her finances.
Claudia’s ex-partner would take her bank card if a pet was ill so that she couldn’t take them to the vet. The abuser “didn’t want money wasted on them”, said Claudia. The threats of harming pets were regular, which made it difficult for Claudia to leave the relationship, as she was determined to keep them safe.
More than 150 survivors told Welsh Women’s Aid that their pets would be in danger if they left their abusive relationships. In response, animal charities have launched fostering services in Wales specifically for people fleeing domestic abuse to find safe temporary homes for their pets while seeking safety. The Lifeline service, operated by Cats Protection and Dogs Trust’s Freedom service, covers all costs involved in taking care of the pets for their owners.
Stephanie Grimshaw of Welsh Women’s Aid said that survivors were “not just someone who has gone through violence against women and girls”. “They are someone who has a dog, a cat or a hamster… and the thought of giving them away forever is too much,” she said. “We need to make sure that when we’re supporting survivors, they are seen as a whole person with all aspects of their life, and not just what they’re going through right now.
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