From CatAge - What to do re: domestic and animal abuse

[Catty1]

From CatAge

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Domestic Violence and Animal Abuse: How to Help --
Part 2 of 2
Originally published on September 22, 2009

Last week, we reported on how domestic violence and animal abuse often go hand in hand. Although it's not easy to hear about abuse, it's important to know how to respond if you do encounter it. If you are prepared before an incident occurs, you'll be able to respond quickly and find solutions to help protect victims and their pets.

First, get informed . . .

* Ask your county humane society for recommendations on local women's shelters that house both women and their pets.
* Contact local animal rescue groups, veterinarians, and private boarding facilities to see if they provide temporary low- or no-cost housing for abused pets.
* Ask trusted friends, neighbors, or family members if they could provide a temporary home for an abused pet, should the need arise.

Next, if you suspect animal abuse . . .

* Report the situation to your local humane society or animal control agency, and request that officers be sent to the home to investigate. If there are no animal agencies in your area, contact the police or local sheriff's department.
* Do not confront the abuser yourself. Doing so may jeopardize your safety as well as the safety of the pet and the battered person.

And if you witness animal abuse . . .

* Dial 911. Harming an animal is a crime, so calling 911 is both valid and legal.
* Document the details of any incidents you have witnessed, including names, addresses, and time of the event. Photograph or videotape the abused animal only if it is safe to do so.

If you know a victim who is no longer able to keep her pet, contact reliable animal adoption or rescue groups in your area that can help find a new home. Also, for information on how to start a Pets and Women's Shelter (PAWS) Program in your area, contact the American Humane Association.

[lvpets2002]

Very Good Advise.. Yes I get CatAge stuff all the time to read & enjoy their write ups.. thanks candace

[catmandu]

Some very good advice Candace.

The sad thing is that so many people take in pets on a whim, not realizing that they are going to be there for many years, and are Your RESPONSIBILITY!!!

Its a shame that so many people dont take RESPONSIBILTY anymore.

These are Creatures of Our Lord God , not Toys.
And I pray that Our All Loving Lords taking notes.

[Catty1]

What you say is very true, Gary - and what this article points more to is that people who are abusing each other are likely putting the pets in danger too.

It's good that some women's shelters allow pets. Hopefully every person that needs to leave a bad situation can find a network of friends to help with their pets while they get back on their feet.