Home is where your companion is
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Companion animals and their safety can play a pivotal role in the ability of survivors of domestic violence to leave their abuser. The majority of emergency shelters are unable to accommodate companion animals, leaving survivors with an impossible decision of whether to stay out of concern for their animal or leave for their own safety. Many survivors report delaying leaving or returning to their abuser due to fear for the safety of their companion animal. The Lassie Project is a dedicated nonprofit organization committed to empowering survivors of domestic violence who have companion animals. By raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by these individuals, we aim to break the silence surrounding this issue, connect survivors to resources, and support efforts to increase options for survivors of domestic violence.
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Anywhere from 20% - 65% of domestic violence survivors delay leaving their abuser because they don't have anywhere to bring their companion animals.
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91% of survivors reported that their pets' emotional support and physical safety are significant in their ability to survive and heal.
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48% of survivors were worried their abuser would hurt or kill their pets.
37% reported their abuser had threatened their pets.
29% said their pets had been harmed or killed.
Photo by Alex Beattie, cc by 2.0
Up to 25% of survivors will return to abusive situations because their abuser is using their pet as a manipulation tactic.
Contact megan@thelassieproject.org to get more information