Pets - Domestic Violence

Pets are often the forgotten victims of domestic violence

Many women stay with a violent partners because they feel unable to leave their pets behind. Victims find it hard to ask their children to walk away from a much loved pet. They often have to rely on the good nature of either another family member or a neighbour.

A violent partner will often use the pets within the family to gain control, either by physically harming the animals or making threats to harm. Some violent partners have even been known to kill pets. This type of violent behaviour maintains their power and control.

There are now options:

The Dog trust offers a Pet fostering service for victims fleeing domestic violence.

Dog Trust Freedom Project GreaterLondon

PO Box 50208LondonEC1V 7XP

TeL 0800 298 9199

Website http://www.dogstrust.org.uk/wayswehelp/freedom_project/

Areas covered Greater Londonand Hertfordshire

RSPCA Pet Retreat

Will also offer a pet fostering service, although this is not available throughout the country, the RSPCA will be able to offer advice and assistance.

http://www.rspca-westhatch.co.uk/

Locally:

Leybourne Animal Centre 0870 0101 851.

This centre deals with re-homing of a pet.

This page was last updated on 7/30/2008