Pets the forgotten victims of domestic violence
By Cathy Collins
My gut flip-flopped and heart broke when I saw them come through the door. The woman had red-streaked cheeks and eyes, and she was fighting to hold back another flood of tears. She carried a crate containing two very frightened little dogs.
It was yet another owner surrender situation. While volunteering for a local rescue organization, I’d witnessed four in one day two weeks ago. However, this surrender was different, as it was a consequence of domestic violence. Fortunately, the woman, her children and dogs were able to flee their abusive environment.
Research confirms that batterers who commit acts of domestic violence against family members also are likely to abuse family pets. Many women report that their pets had been threatened, harmed, or killed by their partner.
But once domestic violence survivors escape from the abusive relationship, their pets may not feel safe and secure in the new living arrangement. The animals still may suffer from the effects of the abuse for a long time.
It was apparent the two little dogs in the crate were deeply loved. All their vaccinations were up to date; they were surrendered with all their toys, treats, beds and dog food.
The owner said it was in their best interest for the rescue to find new homes for the dogs. The lives of the family members had dramatically changed. The mother had to go back to work full time. Previously, she had been a stay-at-home mom and her abusive husband mandated her every movement.
The domestic violence shelter had placed the family in an apartment that charged extra for pets, and she did not have the extra money. She was terrified if the dogs were to bark too much while she was at work, her family would be evicted.
She said it was the hardest decision she ever had to make and desperately wanted her babies. But she felt the dogs would probably suffer under the new living arrangements, and thus, so would she.
Despite great care and concern from rescuer Andrea, it was several days before the little dogs would eat. Over a month in, they still huddle in fear, withdrawn and severely traumatized.
Andrea continues to speak softly to them, kneeling on their level so she is less threatening. Both dogs are guarded, as if waiting for something bad to happen, the male dog especially so, trembling and fleeing at the sight of Andrea’s husband.
Andrea acts silly with them, using baby talk and play, knowing it will eventually break down their walls. The dogs need time to recover for they, too, have post-traumatic stress disorder.
On a positive note, Andrea knows she will find loving homes for them. They will never have to experience abuse again.
Photos by Andrea Crawford
Pugs
Griffin
Duncan
