Pets can be victims of domestic abuse too.
Abusers may use the pet as a means of controlling the victim or they may harm or even kill the pet. Hurting a pet can be used to show the victim what will happen to them if they try to seek help or leave.
Many victims of domestic abuse stay with the abuser because they are too scared to leave their pet at home.
Research by Dog's Trust found that:
- Almost nine in 10 professionals working in the domestic abuse sector have seen cases where a pet has also been abused.
- Almost half (49%) of professionals working in the sector are aware of domestic abuse cases here the pet has been killed.
- In addition to the physical abuse that pets may suffer, 97% of professionals said they are also often used as a means of controlling someone experiencing domestic abuse.
- More than nine in 10 professionals (95%) also said that some survivors will not leave their home without knowing their pet would be safe
Dog's Trust have a fostering scheme covering Cambridgeshire -If you think you can help or would like more information on the service, you can visit Freedom Project | Dog Fostering Support | Dogs Trust, or call 0808 196 6240
Cats Protection Lifeline Project offers a fostering service for cats. For more information visit the Lifeline website