Pets are an often-overlooked factor in domestic violence, especially when a national survey revealed that 85 percent of all women entering a domestic abuse shelter told officials that a violent partner has threatened, injured or killed a family pet. Worry over a pet's well-being could keep women away from making a decision that is best for their safety.
The Kansas City domestic violence shelter has taken a step to remedy this, now accepting companion pets to its facility.
Were it not for her pet dog, a Kansas City, Missouri woman could have been even more seriously injured, after an incident of physical altercation with her boyfriend. During the argument, the woman's boyfriend attempted to strike her with a hammer.
However, during the occurrence, the woman's Great Dane jumped on top of her, and helped to spare her from some of the hammer's blows. After giving up with the hammer, the man then pushed the woman and her dog out of a second-story window. Their fall to the ground gave both the woman and canine serious injuries.
Even after that incident, the woman was hesitant to seek the aid of a domestic violence shelter. She did not want to check in to the facility and leave her heroic dog behind or with her violent boyfriend.
Workers at one Kansas City-based domestic violence shelter said that around 40 percent of women who inquire about rooms do not take them because the facility does not allow pets. This will leave those women living in places like cars or back in dangerous situations with an abusive partner.
There are many reasons why an individual chooses to stay in an abusive relationship. Fortunately for this woman, she was able to not only leave an unhealthy situation, but also find shelter for herself and her brave canine.
Source: The Huffington Post, "Dogs now welcome at domestic violence shelter thanks to heroic pooch," Jan. 14, 2012
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