April 13 - 19 Desigated Animal Cruelty/ Human Violence Awareness Week

Most American households claim pets as a part of their family. Unfortunately, that treatment sometimes extends to domestic violence.

Pets can be victims as much as the human family members. Animals in violent homes may be threatened, injured or even killed as a means of intimidating and/or controlling the human members of the household, whether children or adults.

Wanting to protect a pet is a strong motivating factor to many individuals. One reason domestic violence victims delay leaving an abusive situation is for fear the batterer will retaliate against the family pet.

Many domestic violence shelters are beginning to recognize the importance of including the family pets in domestic violence interventions. They have formed collaborations with area pet shelters to temporarily house pets until the victims are able to take the animals back.

These programs go under a variety of names, including Safe Havens for AnimalsTM and Safe Pet Program. Whatever the name, it means a better situation for those seeking to escape an abusive home without leaving their pets behind.

In areas where these pet safe havens have been instituted, victims no longer have to make the choice between their own safety and that of their pets.

Studies show clear links between animal abuse and family violence. Search "animal cruelty and family violence" on the internet and you'll find many links detailing this connection.

Be alert when and if you discover a situation of animal abuse -- often there are other abuses taking place in the household as well. Turn in situations of animal abuse for the sake of all involved; you might just be saving more than one life.

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has designated April as Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month. Please support that worthy cause, not just this month, but every day of the year.

'Til next time, take care of those you love . . . even those with fur, feathers, fins or scales.