Animal abuse: The hidden victims of domestic violence

Abstract

A growing number of investigations indicate the concurrence of domestic violence and animal abuse. Family members who commit domestic violence often use threats and mistreatment of pets as a means of controlling their partners and children. Most of the investigations have been conducted in the United States of America. This paper presents the results obtained from a study carried out in Mexico. Collected data on 80 men and women belonging to domestic violence support groups in the city of Xalapa, Veracruz. Participants noted the presence of threats and acts of physical and/or psychological ill-treatment of their pets. 40% said their animal was beaten by the aggressor. 20% reported that concern for their pet’s well-being was an impediment to leaving the home they shared with the abuser. Fifteen percent indicated that their children observed animal abuse.