The RSPCA Pets in Crisis program will be expanded into the Great Southernand South-West regions as part of the WA Government’s 16 Days in WA campaignto stop violence against women.

The program offers victims of domestic and family violence with a temporaryhome to place their animals while they focus on their own safety.

A study showed that 35 per cent of women delayed seeking refuge from a violentsituation due to concerns for their pet’s welfare.

Simone McGurk, Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence Minister, said theprogram not only ensure animals are protected, but encourages women who areexperiencing family and domestic violence to seek help.

“Pets play such an important role in our families, but unfortunatelyperpetrators can exploit that connection with threats and intimidation, whichcan prevent women from fleeing a violent household.”

Lynne Bradshaw, RSPCA WA Chair, congratulated the State Government on itscommitment to expanding the program.

“Domestic violence affects all family members, including pets. Pets in Crisisnot only gives human victims peace of mind about their animals, it alsoprovides a safe haven for the pets of violent households, who are often abusedor threatened with abuse.

“RSPCA WA is aware of the increased number of calls in the region from refugeslooking to support their clients who are pet owners, and from women themselveswho refuse to leave a violent situation unless they can take their pets withthem.”

Tagged: Domestic Violence, RSPCA

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