Something to know about
If you've never found yourself, or known first hand, of a woman in this position, it probably never occurred to you that someone's "pet" might be one of the things holding them with an abuser.
". . . Research shows that up to 48% of domestic abuse victims delay leaving an abusive relationship because they have no safe place for their animals. Countless victims stay with their abuser to protect their beloved animals. . . "
Sheltering Animals of Abuse Victims http://www.saavprogram.org/
Strengthen the ability of victims to leave abusive relationships by reducing barriers to safety.
Act as a change agent to create conditions in which victims and their animals are safe and free from abuse.
Advocate for the safety of animals at risk of abuse.
Validate the bond between domestic abuse victims, their children, and their animals.
The abuser might threaten the life of a beloved pet of the woman or children. Even if they don't threaten the pet, it's hard to walk away from a "member of the family" - especially if that "member" can't fend for themselves, has provided comfort, is a loyal companion. You can't stay, but you can't leave them with the monster either . . . And most women's shelter will NOT take pets.
This is a very interesting program. I don't know if it exists anywhere else in some form, but I just heard about it and wanted to share. Maybe you can generate some interest in your community.
I'm Interested In Starting A Program Like Yours, Where Do I Start?
We are pleased to provide information to start-up nonprofits or other individuals interested in starting a sheltering program. Additionally, our volunteers are available to speak on the link between domestic abuse and animal cruelty and other similar topics. In addition to providing shelter services, we also hope to inspire others to make a difference in their own community and we are happy to serve as a resource to facilitate shelter programs in other communities. Please email us any time for assistance, use the contact form. Email: info@saavprogram.org
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Maybe not always obvious, but I could never leave mine behind and heaven knows we have a shortage of pet-friendly housing in this country, much less shelters.
Great program. 
As is well known abusers often kill the abused animal friend/s in retaliation. Often it's the first step in the escalation of deadly violence against the abused.
...would not hesitate to harm a pet.
Why are people so possessive, evil and controlling? There's a gene we could do without.
(and their pets)
I hope to be involved with helping this situation at some point in the future and I appreciate this information very much.
