Shelter for pets: A review of pet placement policies in California domestic violence shelters

Komorosky, Dawna

Friday, March 30, 2012: 10:20 AM-10:40 AM

Yerba Buena Salon 7 (San Francisco Marriott Marquis)

Speaker:
Dawna Komorosky, Ph.D., Criminology, California State University, East Bay

Authors:
Dianne Rush Woods, Ph.D., California State University, East Bay
Kristine Empie, Ph.D., Criminology, South University

Presentation Format:
Poster

Learning Objectives:

Understand the connection between domestic violence and animal abuse.
Identify the challenges facing shelters when victims present with pets.
Explore alternative placements for pets in the community.

Description:
There is a growing body of literature suggesting a relationship between animal cruelty and intimate partner violence. Research in this area reveals that women delay leaving an abusive relationship due to concerns for the family pet. Many domestic violence shelters do not allow pets and this is often an additional trauma experienced by the victim. This study examined California domestic violence shelters regarding their policy on pets. Recommendations for future research will be discussed along with suggestions for resources.