Theme of the month - Violence: Violence Against Animals

One reason to why many people stay in a violent relationship may be out of fear that a pet exposed to violence may be even more hurt. A person may not be able to bring the animal when escaping from their violent home. The risk of violence is much higher if addiction is involved.

In her book Med husbondens röst (transl. With the master's voice) Carin Holmberg writes about women whom experienced violence in their home. She writes for instance about Moa, a woman who's been beaten by her husband Mats. He also beat their pet. In the beginning of their relationship Moa moved in with Mats together with her two cats, and during the relationship they bought a dog each. Moa didn't want to leave her dog alone with Mats after an incident where he kicked the dog. He also scalded her cats under the faucet. Despite all this, Moa was afraid to leave Mats since he threatened to find her and kill all of their pets. One day Moa ended up in the hospital after being severely beaten by Mats. When she came home, she found her dog unconscious and full of blood. This was when Moa finally found the strength to leave Mats, even if it was in great fear. Unfortunately she was forced to leave her cats in the care of someone else, since she lost of all their trust.

Hurting an animals may be used to control and threat the people close to the animal.

Violence against animals can both be psychological, where the person frighten the animal and create an unsafe environment, or physical, through beating or other harmful acts.

Do you suspect that an animal is being treated badly? Report it! It's our duty to help animals who can't help them selves! The whole family may also be in need of help.


/Carina