News
Stop the Violence
November 22, 2008, 5:12AM MT
By Jan Gilmer
With November 22nd being "Stop the Violence Day" I thought it would be a very opportune time to talk about the relationship between human violence and animal abuse. Because the truth is, violence cuts across all boundaries.
With November 22nd being "Stop the Violence Day" I thought it would be a very opportune time to talk about the relationship between human violence and animal abuse. Because the truth is, violence cuts across all boundaries.
From Jan, News Writer
Intentional animal cruelty, or abuse, is often a warning sign. It is a particular concern because it is a sign of psychological distress and often indicates that an individual either has already experienced abuse or violence or may be predisposed to committing acts of abuse or violence. Intentional cruelty can be an indicator that an individual is developing a pattern of seeking power and control by inflicting suffering on others. Not unlike the power and control sought by those who inflict abuse on their families.
Animals in these situations are silent victims, who may be threatened, injured or killed by a violent family member to control or intimidate other members of the household. Fear for the welfare of their pets is a significant barrier that prevents thousands of battered women from leaving abusive situations. They feel trapped because domestic violence shelters cannot accommodate pets.
…Until now.
Just like other family members, animals need a safe haven. Now thanks to many nonprofits working together, pets too, are finding a safe place to go. These nonprofits are working to build networks where when a woman seeks shelter, her pets are taken to safe homes or boarding facilities, where they remain until the woman relocates. We are also starting to see some shelters beginning to make accommodations and allow on-site housing of pets. For more information please see:
1. American Humane Site
2. The Humane Society of the United States
Animal cruelty doesn't happen in a vacuum. It is a clear signal that either a family is already suffering from violence or a youth may someday turn hostile, aggressive, and violent toward humans.
So what can you do?
1. Take animal cruelty seriously! Learn to recognize it and REPORT it to your local animal shelter or police.
2. Educate others on the connections between violence against animals and violence against humans.
3. Form a community antiviolence coalition made up of representatives from the different agencies involved in violence prevention and response.
4. Support strong laws against animal cruelty.
Together we can make a difference. Not only can we spare animals from their suffering, but if we are diligent and persistent, we can stop the violence before it has a chance to escalate and spread.
Image courtesy of Jan
Posted By, Jan