There is overwhelming evidence of a connection between animal cruelty and domestic violence.

Twenty-five years of research shows that the majority of violent offenders of serious crimes have childhood and adolescent history of animal cruelty. Most serial killers started out their life of violence by killing and torturing animals. Research also shows a consistent pattern of animal abuse among perpetrators of domestic violence.

No one deserves to be abused, and no animals deserve to be abused either!

Many women refuse to leave their abusers, due to their concern for a pet’s safety. Through a unique collaborative effort, the Humane Society of Cowlitz County assists Emergency Support Shelter, by providing a safe environment for domestic violence victims to board their pets while staying at the shelter. If you or someone you know who owns pets is in an abusive relationship, seek help by contacting your local shelter, and ask them about assistance with boarding companion animals.

It is important to acknowledge the seriousness of violence against animals. When we ignore animal abuse, we may also be ignoring abuse to humans.

To learn more about the connection between animal cruelty and domestic violence, follow the links below:

• Humane Society First Strike
 www.hsus.org
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• Latham Foundation
 www.latham.org