The Alberta SPCA is exploring how links between livestock and pets affect rural cases of family violence.
It is seeking information on cases where animals were threatened or harmed by domestic abusers.
Identities will be kept confidential, according to an SPCA news release.
“Past studies have shown that up to 48 percent of victims delayed leaving an abusive situation out of concern for their pets,” said Tim Battle, director of education for the Alberta SPCA, in the release.
The study, which will be done by researchers affiliated with the University of Calgary, will survey people at rural emergency shelters and provide results by the end of this year.
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Personal stories of victims are also being sought to improve understanding of how livestock can factor into victim response.
“So often in these situations, a person’s love for their animal is used against them,” said Battle. “The more we understand about these situations, the more we can help both the human and the animal victims of violence.”
Those who choose to share their stories will be asked if animals were threatened or harmed and whether concern for animals kept victims from seeking safety.
For more information, contact Donna at 403-650-4608 or e-mail spcaresearch@gmail.com.
