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Resources exlporing the link between animal abuse and domestic violence

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Please find below clickable icons that enable you to download research papers, articles and presentations about domestic violence and animal abuse.

Quick Reference Facts:

The Link is fast becoming the most accepted and researched theory behind the interconnectedness between animal abuse and domestic violence.

  • 63% of Australians own a pet
  • Over 70% of women reporting domestic violence incidents said their abusers hurt, killed or threatened their pets
    (Ascione, 1998)
  • Males are responsible for almost all acts of violence towards humans and pets.
    (Arkow 2016: Tong 2015; Tiplady 2013)
  • Animal cruelty is a way of exerting power and control in domestic violence situations.
  • 18% and 48% of battered women have delayed their decision to leave their batterer or have returned to their batterer out of fear for the welfare of their pets or livestock
    (Ascione, 2007).
  • Australian study – when leaving with their animals:
    • 92% were turned away from refuges,
    • 70% from government rental,
    • 60% from private rental
    • and 33% from family and friends
    (Tong 2015)
  • Only a few women's refuges in Australia offer a safe haven for both pets and their families.
  • Domestic violence and animal abuse happens in both rural and urban areas.
  • It's not just cats and dogs that are targeted. Chickens, horses and even lamas have been harmed.
  • Animal abuse is a red flag that other people in household are being abused.
  • 53% of the women in violent relationships had pets hurt or killed compared with 0% in the community.
    (Johnson)
  • Animal abuse is not just violence but neglect as well
  • Children who witness acts of animal cruelty were are more likely to engage in cruelty to animals
  • 96% of animal abusers had also abused children
    (Humane Society, 2002).

References on
Animal Abuse, Cruelty and Neglect

Organisations dedicating to protecting animals (general websites):

Other links dedicated to animal abuse and cruelty:

Legislation:

Department information:

References on
Child Abuse and Neglect

References on
Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence and Animals

General:

Other resources:

Research:

References on
Elder Abuse

Support organisations:

Seeking Help

Other Links

LGBT Awareness:

Empathy:

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