In a concerning revelation, pet owners confronted with crisis situations, including victims of domestic violence, are grappling with a lack of essential support services crucial for their protection.
A recent review conducted by Jasmine Montgomery, a James Cook University PhD candidate, along with Associate Professors Janice Lloyd and Zhanming Liang, delved into international research evidence and Australian policies. Focused on the human-animal bond, the review specifically examined scenarios involving separation due to domestic violence, homelessness, and natural disasters.
Montgomery emphasized the psychological distress that arises when individuals are compelled to separate during crises like natural disasters, homelessness, or domestic violence. She stated, “The risk to their health, well-being, and safety is significantly impacted.” Unfortunately, the review confirmed a distressing trend where pets in domestic violence situations often faced maltreatment and, in some cases, death.
One key finding underscored the reluctance of individuals to leave their homes during domestic violence situations due to concerns about their pets’ safety and a lack of support. Montgomery explained, “In cases of domestic violence, evidence suggests that people will delay leaving their relationship to protect their pet.” The lack of shelters or housing accommodating pets and a mistrust in support systems contribute to this hesitation.
The review also shed light on the challenges posed by natural disasters, where individuals may jeopardize their safety by returning for their pets during dangerous periods or staying behind to protect them.
Importantly, the review identified ingrained biases in systemic supports, reflecting human “superiority” and disparities over responsibility for pet welfare. Montgomery emphasized the need for a shift in mindset, urging consideration of the needs of pets in crisis planning and service provision.
“We need to start taking our pets, and the value of our pets, very seriously,” Montgomery stressed. She called for a collective responsibility in the community to address these issues in policy development, legislation, service provision, and housing to prevent unfavorable outcomes like animal maltreatment or death.
Montgomery is currently engaged in a nationwide, qualitative study examining forced separation from animals in domestic violence scenarios. The aim is to identify service gaps in current support systems and formulate recommendations for a national policy framework addressing the needs of both victims and their pets in the domestic violence and animal welfare sectors.
