The connection between animal cruelty and domestic violence is a critical but often overlooked aspect of both social issues. While the shocking number of reported animal cruelty cases is staggering, it is only a fraction of the actual incidents that occur. Understanding this relationship is essential to addressing and preventing violence in all its forms.
The Scope of Animal Cruelty
Animal cruelty spans all social and economic boundaries and is prevalent in both rural and urban areas. Cases of abuse are not compiled by state or federal agencies, making it difficult to ascertain their true extent. However, available data reveals a strong correlation between animal cruelty and other forms of violence.
Who Abuses Animals?
Surveys indicate that intentional animal abuse is predominantly committed by men under 30, while animal hoarding is more common among women over 60. Hoarding behavior often results in severe neglect, indicating a need for social or mental health services.
Common Victims
Dogs, cats, horses, and livestock are the most frequently reported victims of animal abuse. Undercover investigations have uncovered rampant abuse in the factory farming industry, though weak state laws mean only the most egregious cases are reported and even fewer are prosecuted.
Organised Cruelty
Organised animal cruelty, such as dogfighting and cockfighting, is often linked with other crimes, including drug trafficking and homicide. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has documented police officers' involvement in these activities and worked with the FBI to combat public corruption.
The Connection to Domestic Violence
The relationship between animal cruelty and domestic violence is stark. Data on domestic violence and child abuse cases show a significant number of animals are also targeted by abusers.
Statistics
- There are approximately 70 million pet dogs and 74.1 million pet cats in the U.S.
- 20 men and women are assaulted per minute in the U.S., averaging around 10 million assaults per year.
- In one survey, 71% of domestic violence victims reported their abuser also targeted pets.
- A study of families under investigation for suspected child abuse found pet abuse occurred in 88% of those families.
Legislative Action
To address this pattern of violence, the Pets and Women’s Safety (PAWS) Act was enacted as part of the 2018 farm bill. The PAWS Act helps domestic abuse victims find the means to escape their abusers while keeping their companion animals safe.
Legal and Legislative Trends
The HSUS has led efforts to strengthen animal cruelty laws and provide training for law enforcement to detect and prosecute these crimes. All 50 states now have felony provisions for animal cruelty, with 49 states providing felony penalties for the first offence.
Federal Tracking
In January 2016, the FBI began categorising animal cruelty in the Uniform Crime Report, a nationwide system used in homicide investigations. This data collection includes categories for neglect, intentional abuse, organised abuse, and animal sexual abuse, helping to create a clearer picture of animal abuse and guide intervention strategies.
The Path Forward
Recognising the link between animal cruelty and domestic violence is crucial for effective intervention. Strengthening laws, improving data collection, and providing resources for victims are essential steps in breaking the cycle of violence. By addressing animal cruelty, we can also make significant strides in preventing domestic violence and ensuring the safety and well-being of all victims.