Linking domestic and animal abuse

The levels of domestic abuse in the UK are shocking and make for painful reading. From recent surveys and statistics, these are some of the facts: 1 in 3 women aged between 16 and 59 years will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime; three women each week are killed in England and Wales by a partner or former partner; and 1 in 5 adults experienced at least one form of child abuse before the age of 16 years.

Levels of domestic abuse increased during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Abuse can take several forms – psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional. Abuse occurs by inflicting harm, but also by failing to prevent harm, which we term neglect.

Why am I highlighting these statistics which, although naturally concerning, refer to instances of human abuse? Unfortunately, it is well recognised that there is an overlap between domestic abuse and abuse of pets. One study found that animal abuse occurred in 88% of households (with pets) where physical abuse of children had been reported. There are several motivations for this, but one scenario is that dogs can become targets or pawns in abusive situations. Pets may be harmed as part of the abuse of the victim or to act as a warning or demonstration of what the perpetrator is capable of. Although all pets may be at risk, dogs are the pets most likely to be victimised.