An abusive relationship is tough, no matter the circumstances. Imagine having to choose between fleeing one with your pet or leaving it behind to an unknown fate. More domestic violence shelters are slowly opening their doors to victims and pets, yet only 3 percent do so currently. Construction is underway in New York City for the country’s first shelter custom-built for victims and pets. It won’t be the last.
Source: Washington Post (paywall). June 15, 2018. Link. “We recognized that, when you look at the percentage of households that have pets and the still-stubborn realities of domestic violence, that our work was to reduce the obstacles,” he said. “Let’s not put a survivor in an impossible situation of choosing between their own safely . . . and the safety of their pets.”
INSIGHTS: Good animal health pros are often their customers’ confidants. Knowing what domestic abuse shelters in a community are pet-friendly could be invaluable. It could save a customer and his/her pet.