Citation

Allen M, Gallagher B, Jones B. Practice 2006; 18(3): 167-181.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/09503150600904060

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper reports on a small study which investigates the connection between domestic violence and non-accidental injury in animals in the Republic of Ireland. This found that many women reported witnessing one or more forms of abuse, or threats of abuse, of their pets. Most women considered that a place to accommodate pets would have made their decision to leave the family home easier. Four women disclosed that lack of such a service and concern for the welfare of their companion animals caused them to remain in their abusive relationships for longer than they felt appropriate. The majority of women felt unable to talk to anyone about their fears for their pets' welfare and there is no service which can provide temporary accommodation for women's pets while they are in a refuge. These findings support those found elsewhere in larger studies in the US and UK, and demonstrate a high incidence of animal abuse in households where there is reported domestic violence. The implications for social work education and practice of the issue of violence against women are discussed.