RSPCA initiative empowering domestic violence victims

by StreetCorner
25/11/2008

According to the RSPCA one in four women stay in an abusive relationship for fear their pets will be harmed by their violent partner.

Today at the RSPCA's Yagoona Shelter the Safe Beds for Pets Awareness Campaign - to assist with empowering women and their children to escape domestic violence - was re-launched in conjunction with the St George Domestic Violence Counselling Service.

The Safe Beds for Pets program allows victims of domestic violence to leave their pets at the Yagoona Shelter until their life is stable.

RSPCA NSW chief executive Steve Coleman said up to 150 pets come through the program each year, staying an average of four to six weeks.

However, he said the program had just enough funding to run for another year and is looking for donations to keep the program afloat.

“The RSPCA is about human welfare as well as animal welfare, we believe that every member of the family has the right to feel safe and live free from harm,” said Mr Coleman.

“RSPCA NSW receives no funding to run this program, we provide accommodation, food and vet care for all the animals in the program.”

Today's launch coincided with White Ribbon Day - The United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Women in need of the Beds for Pets service should call 0434 258 259.

About Safe Beds for Pets

Perpetrators of domestic violence usually attack those most vulnerable, so they frequently target the family pet

Fear of leaving pets in the hands of a violent partner often prevents women and children leaving a domestic violence situation

Safe Beds for Pets provides secure accommodation, with all pets given full veterinary examinations.

RSPCA has established partnerships with domestic violence victim support services who act as a referal agencies for women who need access to the program.

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