Katherine Clark, a Congresswoman in Massachusetts reported that approximately 25% of women will experience domestic violence in their life in the United States. Clark states, “This isolating experience is made even worse for those who fear for the safety of their pet. Most pet lovers, including me, consider their beloved dog or cat a part of their family. No one should have to make the choice between leaving an abusive situation and ensuring their pet’s safety. I am grateful for the partnerships we’ve formed across the aisle and between organizations working to end both domestic violence and animal abuse. Together, we crafted a bill that will help save lives.”
Clark reports that of that 33% of victims of domestic violence will remain with their abuser for a longer period of time out of concern for their pet(s) and 25% of victims return to an abusive situation out of concern for their pet(s). Currently, in the United States, only 3% of shelters for victims of domestic abuse can accommodate pets.
Congresswomen Katherine Clark (Massachusetts) and Ileana Ros-Lehitnen (Florida) have reintroduced a bill designed to protect victims of domestic violence and their pets. The Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act of 2015 will help increase the protection available for the pets of victims of domestic violence and start a federal grant program to help people find a safe place for their pet(s).
Congresswoman Ros-Lehitnen states, “We should continue to work for the day when victims of domestic violence will not be hindered in their decision to leave an abuser.” The Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act of 2015 has the support of many local and international organizations.
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