Virginia: Protect Pets from Domestic Abuse, Too!
Domestic abuse and animal abuse are intricately linked. One study shows that in families with child abuse, there is an 88 percent chance that animals are abused, too.
A domestic violence bill in Virginia would not only protect children, families and individuals who have been stalked, abused or sexually battered -- their companion animals would be protected, too.
Abusers often target animals to demonstrate their power over the family, enforce submission, keep the victim(s) from leaving or coerce him or her to return or punish the victim for leaving or showing independence.
Don't leave animals vulnerable to violence and abuse! Urge Virginia legislators to pass this bill and protect children, families, individuals, and companion animals from domestic abuse.
Dear
[Decision Maker],
I urge you to support HB 1716. The passage of this bill will protect children, families, individuals who have been stalked, abused or sexually battered as well as protect companion animals from individuals who commit these crimes.
[Your comments will be inserted here.]
One study found that of families that experienced child abuse, 88 percent also experienced animal abuse. Other studies have found the same relationship with varying degrees of animal abuse.
Abusers often target animals to demonstrate their power over the family, enforce submission, keep the victims from leaving or coerce him or her to return or punish the victim for leaving or showing independence.
This bill would protect animals from violence and help alleviate victims' concern for the health, safety and well-being of their companion animals when they're in an abusive situation.
I urge you to support this important bill.
