9 December 2024

Record numbers of pet owners are using an RSPCA WA program to help escape family and domestic violence.

Last financial year RSPCA WA, through the support of State Government funding, helped 67 animals from 44 families seek safety. That’s a more than 50 per cent increase on 2022-23 numbers.

The one-of-a-kind program, Pets In Crisis, benefits both victim-survivors and their beloved pets by providing temporary shelter for the animals with the aim of reuniting once their owner has found secure housing.

RSPCA WA chair Lynne Bradshaw said victim-survivors often delay leaving because they’re worried about what will happen to their animals.

“One study showed as many as 35 per cent of people delay leaving for this reason,” she said.

“Pets In Crisis provides a practical solution to that concern. It offers protection for pets in family and domestic violence households who all too often suffer emotional trauma, neglect, physical injuries and even death at the hands of perpetrators.

“Over 300 animals have been through the program since it was launched in FY17-18 and I am incredibly grateful to the State Government for helping RSPCA WA offer this haven.”

One person assisted by Pets In Crisis is Chantelle*. In November last year, she was referred to the program by her medical centre. Chantelle had a Staffy-cross and a Shepherd-cross she needed temporary and immediate accommodation for after leaving an abusive relationship.

Both dogs entered the program but at the end of the three-month period, Chantelle was still struggling to find appropriate accommodation, so an extension was granted.

Thankfully, in April, she was able to take her two dogs back and the three were happily reunited.

Executive Manager Animal and Enforcement Operations Hannah Dreaver said RSPCA WA inspectors encounter FDV situations regularly as often pets are used to exert coercive control or are even direct victims of violence themselves.

“Some examples of what our staff have seen include a puppy who had his tail cut off by a woman’s male partner in an effort to upset her, and two dogs who were taken out into bushland and hit over the heads with a hammer by a woman’s male partner,” she said.

“Many times the cases aren’t as obvious as this – the perpetrator may withhold food or vet care for a pet as means of control, or threaten to give away or harm the animal also as a way to control.

“These can be very delicate situations for us to deal with because while we need to ensure the welfare of the animal, we are also mindful of the safety of others in the home.

“It is important for people to know that the program is not part of our inspectorate services and referrals are sent to our animal services team who work with clients and case workers who organise entry into the program.”

PIC is offered throughout Perth and the metropolitan area, the South West, and in the Great Southern. It is available via a referral from a caseworker.

PIC is open to all domestic pets including cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs etc. for up to three months – but this is flexible, particularly given the current housing crisis.