The link between domestic violence and animal abuse has long been suspected, but research has now proven how deep the connection runs. In response, the National Link Coalition was formed.
The Coalition is building on strong foundational work built by the Humane Society, which runs a research and education program called First Strike: The Violence Connection. It’s studies have focused on the correlation between violence against animals and violence against people. The studies also found a majority of people – 85-percent – think that prosecution of animal abusers is important or very important, which has helped form and change laws across the nation. The First Strike consists of much pioneer work in the field of the connection of violence between species.
As part of Help End Abuse for Life’s ongoing process of cultivating the strongest possible team, each of the shelter’s resident advocates is required to complete five hours of continuing education each quarter, or 20 hours each year. Advocate Shannon Davis recently attended a training seminar in Albuquerque that was hosted by the National Link Coalition. She returned to her work at The Nest with a new outlook on violence.
The Coalition’s research shows animal abuse exists in the majority of homes where domestic violence, including intimate partner abuse and child abuse, occurs. Animal abusers are five times more likely to commit violent crimes.
The use of animal cruelty as a control tactic is very common among abusers. The women who come to the Nest domestic violence shelter tell similar tales; many delay leaving violent situations because they fear for the safety of their animals. Those batterers who abuse animals are often far more violent in their abuse of their spouses and children. Far too often, an abuser lures a victim back into the home by threatening her animals or by buying new ones, knowing she will be too afraid to leave the animal alone.
At The Nest, most domestic pets are welcome to come into the shelter with the survivor. Staff realizes a pet is often the only emotional support a victim has. Advocates work with residents to help them find ways to get their animals out of abusive situations or to find a foster home for their pet during the transition.
The work of the National Link Coalition and other advocacy groups is important for the community of Lincoln County because of the community’s high rate of domestic violence. Staff at The Nest believe we can only begin ending violence and oppression for everyone when we learn from where violence stems and what shapes it. Only then can we become committed to removing it from our homes, our lives and our community.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, just as it is Adopt a Shelter Dog month. What an apropos time to explore the intersect between animal cruelty and domestic violence to further our understanding of the dynamics and complexity of family violence.
