Posted on Feb 26, 2011 in Animal Cruelty, Blog by daisy 2 Comments
Research has shown that there is a connection between animal abuse, child abuse, domestic violence, elder abuse, bullying and other forms of violence. Intentional animal cruelty or abuse can be a warning sign that an individual has already experienced violence and may be predisposed to committing other crimes such as vandalism, arson, physical assault and even murder. A child who has abused an animal could be the victim of abuse and are at a greater risk of mimicking the abusive behaviour. If it goes unreported….everyone suffers.
Animal cruelty and/or abuse in the family represents a hierarchy of power and control. It is used to manipulate, control and isolate a victim of domestic violence. Pets are generally considered a part of the family and ultimately can share the suffering that occurs when there is violence in the home. The abuser may use violence, or threat of violence against animals, to terrorize, manipulate and control the human victim. Killing or removing the family pet can isolate the person who is being abused. Some victims will stay in destructive relationship due to threats against, or out of concern for, their companion animals. Animals may even be used to perpetrate sexual abuse. There is strong evidence connecting animals’ abuse, domestic violence, child abuse and elder abuse. This sometimes can even escalate to individuals outside of the family.
Without intervention, the cycle of violence will continue. It’s important to be responsible and take the opportunity to intervene when people or animals are abused end the cycle of violence.
The Animal Cruelty Syndrome, NY Times
Tags: a child who abuses an animal, animal cruelty, bullying, Calgary Humane Society, connection between animal abuse and human abuse, connection between animal cruelty and violence, domestic violence
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• Calgary Police Service, 403-266-1234
• Humane Society, 403-205-4455
• City of Calgary Animal Services, 311
• Alberta SPCA, 1-800-455-9003 (rural Alberta)
Chris, Ontario Apr 21 2011 - 11:28 pm
It’s so important for people to understand that violence is violence, & cruelty is cruelty, no matter who it’s directed towards. The “NY Times” article, The Animal-Cruelty Syndrome, also has lots of good info. It also shows how animals can help abused children heal, http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/13/magazine/13dogfighting-t.html
daisy Apr 21 2011 - 11:42 pm
Great link. Thank you!