Domestic Violence, Pets and Christmas

Most people would agree that the connection they share with their pets is unlike anything else. They offer us support and affection and are with us during the good times and the bad. In truth, pets are more than just companions; they are family members, confidants, and a source of comfort during the chapter of our lives that we share together.

For many, the bond with their pet provides a vital emotional lifeline. However, this deep connection can also become a vulnerability in situations of domestic violence. When an abuser is present, pets often become silent victims, suffering alongside their owners or being used as tools of control and manipulation.

Understanding the impact of domestic violence on pets is crucial, as it not only highlights the hidden dangers faced by animals in these households but also reveals how the fear of leaving a beloved pet behind can trap victims in abusive relationships.

In this article, we’re taking a closer look at the implications of domestic violence on owners and their pets, including the signs and symptoms to look out for, as well as resources and support for those in need.

Though domestic violence can be present within a household year-round, the Christmas season often intensifies challenges in families where this dynamic exists. The stress of meeting festive expectations, managing strained relationships, and dealing with financial worries can escalate tensions and cause violent situations to arise. For many, increased social gatherings and alcohol consumption can lead to a rise in abuse within homes. Pets are not only witnesses to these painful situations but are often deeply affected by them.

In abusive homes, pets may be used as leverage by abusers to control, manipulate, or punish other family members. Because pets hold a special place in the hearts of their owners, they are sometimes caught in situations where they are threatened, harmed, or neglected to exert control over family members.

Because pets are a source of comfort, companionship, and unconditional love, abusers often use this bond to manipulate and intimidate victims. For example, an abuser may threaten to harm a pet if a partner tries to leave or seek help. This fear for their pet’s safety can make it difficult for individuals to escape abusive situations. For those suffering from abuse, it can also be difficult to seek refuge through facilities that accept pets, such as pet-friendly accommodation or housing.

Pets are naturally protective of their families, which may place them at direct risk of harm if they try to defend their owners. Dogs, especially, have been known to intervene when their owners are in distress, which could lead to them being injured in the process. Cats and other pets may not intervene directly, but they often display signs of anxiety and stress when living in a volatile environment.

In a survey conducted by the Dogs Trust, over 49% of women experiencing domestic abuse reported that their pets had been harmed or threatened by their partner. Many women stated they delayed leaving their abuser out of fear for their pet's safety.

For those who have fortunately not experienced the cyclical and sinister nature of domestic abuse, walking away can seem like an easy solution. However, for most people, there are financial ties, familial complications and obligations that make simply walking away feel like an impossible task.

It can also be incredibly difficult for friends and loved ones to spot the warning signs of domestic violence. Pets living in abusive households may show behavioural changes that reflect the stress and trauma of their environment, so it’s a good idea to be knowledgeable of how these signs can present.

Common signs of distress in pets can include:

• Increased aggression or fearfulness

• Withdrawal or hiding

• Unusual behaviours such as excessive barking, chewing, or scratching

• Physical signs of injury or neglect

Being able to recognise these signs can be a step toward identifying a potentially harmful situation, especially if you notice similar signs in the people around you. Friends or loved ones experiencing domestic abuse may display signs like withdrawal from social circles, increased anxiety, or unexplained injuries. Recognising these behaviours in both people and their pets can be an opportunity to offer your support or share resources that can help people reach safety.

If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, there are resources available to protect both people and pets in these situations:

• Reach out to organisations such as Women’s Aid and Refuge, who offer advice and support for those experiencing domestic abuse. The Dogs Trust Freedom Project exists to provide safe, temporary housing for pets of domestic abuse survivors, enabling individuals to find help without the worry of leaving their pets behind.

• Make a safety plan and encourage pet owners in unsafe environments to make a plan that includes their pets. If possible, connect with friends, family, or shelters that may be able to provide temporary pet care if needed.

• If you suspect someone in your life is dealing with domestic violence, approach them with sensitivity. Offer resources or information about support services that can help them and their pets.

No one should have to choose between their safety and their pet’s well-being this Christmas. Providing support for both people and pets in abusive situations can be a powerful way to help families rebuild and find safety.

We understand that the festive season can be an especially difficult time for those experiencing domestic violence, with pets often becoming silent victims in these situations.

At Waggel, we want to continue to raise awareness by talking about this topic, supporting local charities, and helping people to recognise the warning signs. By doing this, we aim to contribute to breaking the stigma surrounding domestic violence and pet ownership and help those suffering seek the help they need.

If you’re in a position to this Christmas, consider donating or volunteering with organisations such as Women’s Aid or the Dogs Trust Freedom Project, which work tirelessly to provide crucial resources and support for individuals and animals affected by abuse.