Study Reveals Disturbing Trends of Maltreatment and Death in Pets

Pet owners who are in dire circumstances and must be separated from their animals—including those who are victims of domestic abuse—struggle to get the necessary support services to keep their animals safe. 

These are the conclusions of a recent analysis of 27 years of global study that was published in the journal Anthrozoös. The analysis reveals the higher dangers to people’s safety and psychological health that arise from the possibility of being forcibly separated from their dogs. 

The findings offer crucial perspectives for tackling issues related to homelessness, domestic abuse, and natural calamities that may jeopardize the relationship between people and their dogs. 

Today’s study was conducted in Australia by Ph.D. candidate Jasmine Montgomery of James Cook University, along with Associate Professors Janice Lloyd and Zhanming Liang. 

“Our results reveal the strong emotional attachment between people and animals may result in vulnerability for both in circumstances where this bond is threatened,” Montgomery, the lead researcher, says. 

“People’s safety and well-being are seriously harmed when they are forced to separate during a crisis circumstance, such as a natural disaster, homelessness, or domestic abuse. This can lead to psychological suffering as well as health risks. 

“Sadly, the review also confirmed that a common outcome for pets in cases of domestic violence was maltreatment and/or death.” 

42 papers on the relationship between humans and animals and conditions of separation in cases involving homelessness, domestic abuse, and natural disasters were reviewed by the study team. 

Montgomery stated that the results of their study show that people who are victims of domestic abuse are often unwilling to leave their homes because of worries for the safety and welfare of their pets as well as a lack of assistance. 

“In a lot of cases involving domestic violence, here is evidence that indicates that individuals will delay quitting the relationship in order to safeguard their pet,” she explained. 

This frequently occurs because of a dearth of pet-friendly shelters or housing options or a lack of confidence in official support networks to keep pets with their owners. 

“In instances when threats to animals are made, victims may be lured back by the perpetrator posing a significant risk to their safety in addition.” 

Natural disasters presented similar difficulties, as there was a chance that someone would risk everything to save their pet during a dangerous time or would choose to stay behind to keep it safe. 

The analysis revealed that systemic support for people and their pets in need of assistance during a crisis included human “superiority” and differences in who is accountable for pet welfare. These findings are striking. 

When preparing for crisis circumstances and offering services that support victims during these times, Montgomery said a mentality shift was required to consider the needs of dogs and the complications they bring. 

Journal Reference  

A Scoping Review of Forced Separation Between People and Their Companion Animals, Anthrozoös (2024). DOI: 10.1080/08927936.2023.2287315