Safe haven for woman's best friend
Women no longer need to feel trapped in violent domestic situations because of concern for their beloved pets.
The Pets in Crisis program assists victims of domestic violence and their pets through a unique partnership between the RSPCA Queensland and DVConnect - a Department of Communities' funded information and referral service to assist women and their children to access crisis accommodation.
The manager of DVConnect, Di Mangan, says women often delay leaving a violent relationship because they're worried what will happen to their pets. "Unfortunately refuges are not equipped to take animals and women and children have been reluctant to leave if they cannot find or afford emergency pet care," Di says.
"The program has housed more than 230 pets from households affected by domestic violence throughout the state over the past two years," Di says. "It has helped many women to make the decision to leave the abuse at home knowing they can take their pets with them."
"With just one phone call to DVConnect womensline, women experiencing domestic violence can request care for their pets along with refuge placement for themselves and their children."
Contact DV Connect 1800 811 811.