This webinar will provide a critical review of the research, including an examination of the human-animal bond, the co-occurrence of domestic violence and pet abuse, and how the severity of pet abuse is linked to the severity of domestic violence. Existing policies that respond to the special needs arising from this relationship, such as the inclusion of companion animals on protection orders will be discussed.

The second part of the webinar will explore the options that survivors have when leaving their abusers with their pets, whether that be through temporary boarding or through shelters. Participants examine the role of veterinarians in identifying animal abuse, especially that which may be part of a cycle of violence in the home, as well as serving as, or connecting with, safe havens so victims can seek safe accommodations for their pets. Finally, the webinar will discuss accommodations Rose Brooks Center has for pets and strategies they are using to help survivors with pets during the COVID-19 crisis.

This project was supported by Grant No. 2016-TA-AX-K052 awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this presentation are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.