Research highlights hidden impact of domestic violence on women and their pets
New research from James Cook University has found that women experiencing domestic violence are often forced to choose between their own safety and the safety of their pets, with limited pet-inclusive crisis support contributing to additional trauma and distress.
A recent study from James Cook University reveals the hidden impact of domestic violence on women and their pets in Australia. The research, published in the Journal of Family Violence, highlights the challenges faced by women who must choose between escaping abuse and ensuring their pets' safety. Lead author Dr. Jasmine Montgomery emphasizes the need for a more coordinated response from domestic violence, housing, legal, and animal welfare services.
Women should not have to make this difficult decision, as forced separation from pets can lead to isolation, poverty, disempowerment, homelessness, grief, loss, and trauma. The study found that inadequate pet-inclusive crisis support forces victims to separate from their pets, contributing to secondary crises months later, including mental health distress, further homelessness, and financial hardship.
The research proposes a nationally standardized, integrated framework to better support the safety and well-being of both victim-survivors and their pets. It also identified animal-based coercive control as a significant factor that discourages victims from leaving abusive relationships. The study calls for cross-sector collaboration and coordinated case management to provide pet-inclusive short-, medium-, and long-term accommodation for victims fleeing domestic violence.
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