United Kingdom: Protecting pets from domestic violence

In the UK, as in many parts of the world, families that suffer domestic violence often have pets in the home, and these animals may become victims of the same fear and cruelty suffered by their human companions.

Pets caught in the middle of domestic violence

Not only may pets suffer from domestic violence themselves, but because few refuges can accept them, victims may be forced to stay in a violent situation to avoid leaving their pets behind.

If victims of domestic violence decide to escape the abusive environment, they must face the prospect of either leaving their pet behind to suffer at the hands of the abuser or to have them euthanized.

Creating Safe Havens for Animals

IFAW believes that nobody should have to tolerate violence or sacrifice their beloved pet in order to escape abuse. Nor should animals face cruelty or death because other options don’t exist. That is why we support PAWS for Kids, a United Kingdom organization that provides safe pet fostering services for animal victims of domestic violence.

Animals are offered safety when their families are in crisis, and are reunited with their caregivers once they have found a new safe place. Most abuse victims are women and children, for whom the pets provide emotional support and stability. Knowing their pets are safe is often a great comfort.
By working to protect the animal victims of domestic violence, we are building safer communities for animals and those who love them.