Animal Abuse and Domestic Violence

Group: University of Alaska Anchorage Justice Center

URL: http://justice.uaa.alaska.edu/forum/26/3fall2009/d_animalabuse.html

Description

Animal abuse is one factor in the dynamic of intimate partner violence, and can be used by law enforcement and domestic violence advocates in assessing risk. Studies have documented high rates of pet ownership by domestic violence victims in shelters, a substantial rate of children’s exposure to pet abuse, and clear indications that domestic violence victims’ concern for pets affect decisions to stay in or leave relationships with batterers. This article describes efforts to address some of these issues, including efforts in Anchorage. A bibliography of further reading on animal abuse and domestic violence is included.

Tags

violent crime, domestic violence, sexual violence, animal abuse

Other Attributes