Like other forms of violence, animal abuse has to do with power and control. In many homes where domestic violence occurs, companion animals are also abused. Abusers often manipulate family members by harming or threatening to harm companion animals. As a result, the abused family member(s) delay leaving their abusive situations out of concern for their pet.
UNDERSTANDING ABUSE
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Abuse is about power and control. Sometimes abuse gets worse when an abuser is under stress, but stress does not cause abuse.
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Some abusers expect perfection from their children, spouses, partners, or animals. Better parenting skills, more education about animal behavior, and violence prevention programs can help prevent a great deal of abuse.
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It is easy to get away with animal abuse. Like children, animals can't speak out or fight back. Like women, they are often devalued. As long as animals are considered "property", abuse will occur.
ANIMALS AS PAWNS
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Animal abuse- actual or threatened- can be a way to coerce and manipulate human victims, For example, to prevent a partner from leaving, an abuser might take advantage of a child's concern for a pet. Victims do not have to leave their animals behind- temporary shelter can often be arrange through women's shelters and humane societies.
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An abuser may kill or torture animals and make family members watch. Watching an abuser kill a non-human family member increases the victim's sense of helplessness, since animal abusers typically face few or no consequences.
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Abusers may be jealous of their victim's companion animals. Because animals give comfort, support and unconditional love, some abusers resent them for helping victims become stronger. Some actually kill companion animals to isolate their human victims.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
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Please don't wait until it's too late! children who witness animal abuse may one day become animal abusers themselves., unless someone stands up to the perpetrator.
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Unfortunately, women's shelters can't always accept animals for health and safety reasons. Contact the Pioneer Valley Humane Society at 413-773-3904, and ask to speak with Martha or Dee. They will be able to assist you in finding temporary housing for your companion animals.
ACT NOW!
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Don't ignore abuse.
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Don't accept excuses.
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Don't believe promises.
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Call your local women's shelter for assistance.
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Report animal abuse to your local humane society, or to the police.
Leverett Adoption Center open 7 days a week. Click here for hours. 413-548-9898
Greenfield Rescue & Rehabilitation Center is open by appointment only 413-773-3148
Site created by Marianne Monoc Copyright © 2003 Pioneer Valley Humane Society