Pets need protection – Domestic Violence affects them too!
No one should live in fear. And no one should feel that they have to stay in a violent situation. This is why Animal Aid and EDVS (Eastern Domestic Violence Service) are working together to provide the Pets in Peril Domestic Violence Service.

Domestic Violence is an abuse of power. It occurs when one person exploits a personal or intimate relationship by means of intimidation. While abuse may be physical, it also manifests in more subtle forms, controlling and threatening behaviours, stalking or causing harm to personal property in order to frighten or control. A treasured family pet is a very powerful tool that perpetrators can use to intimidate and coerce a victim.

Counsellors repeatedly hear reports from women whose partners have threatened or even harmed their pets in an attempt to get them to think about the consequences of trying to leave the violent situation. As a result many women delay seeking assistance, with research indicating that up to 40% of women delay their escape by up to three months out of fear for the safety of their pets.

In an ideal world, women’s refuges would be able to accommodate these animals but due to several factors this is not possible, that is why Pets in Peril is so important.

The costs of running this innovative and much-needed program are not recouped from the nominal fee that we ask for. We understand that just because they don’t have the means to pay for their pet’s stay, that shouldn’t preclude them from accessing the service. This service helps around 100 families turn their life around every year at a cost of more than $30,000.

Please help us to ensure that we can continue to provide an option to families who are experiencing domestic violence by making a donation to the Pets in Peril program today. You can also help break the silence surrounding domestic violence and its silent victims by buying one of our bumper stickers for just $3 including postage.

Here is an article from Judy Johnson OAM who is one of the founding members of Eastern Domestic Violence Services. Judy has a long history of humanitarian achievements in both the human and animal welfare fields.

If you would like to know more about Pets in Peril, please contact Sharon on 03 9739 1988 or ssmith@animalaid.org.au.

You can make a difference by allowing us to continue this program. Donate below now and you can also show your support with a Animal Aid Pets in Peril bumper sticker.