Domestic abuse victim chose to stay for her dog

A survivor of domestic abuse has shared that a dog fostering initiative was crucial in helping her leave an abusive relationship safely. She revealed that she initially felt trapped because leaving her partner meant giving up her beloved pet.

When she reached out to her local council for help, she was told that she would need to surrender her dog. "I thought I had no choice but to stay. I couldn't bear to lose my dog," she explained.

Her situation changed thanks to The Dogs Trust's Freedom program, which provided temporary care for her dog while she moved to a secure home. The scheme allows volunteers to foster dogs, enabling victims of abuse to leave dangerous situations without abandoning their pets.

The charity reported a significant rise in demand for foster care, with the number of dogs requiring temporary homes increasing from 258 in 2023 to 422 last year. In response, The Dogs Trust has appealed for more volunteers in the north-east of England to meet the growing need.

Another survivor, who also requested anonymity, delayed leaving her abusive relationship for over two years out of concern for her pet. She credits the Freedom program with giving her the support and reassurance needed to escape safely. "Knowing my dog was protected allowed me to finally leave," she said.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth has endorsed the initiative, noting that one in five calls to the police control room involves domestic abuse. She highlighted that some abusers use pets as tools of intimidation, threatening harm if their partner tries to leave. "Leaving a dog behind is like leaving a family member with someone untrustworthy," she explained.

Lauren Bainbridge from The Dogs Trust in Darlington emphasized that fosterers are not responsible for any costs. "The charity covers all expenses, including vet bills, so volunteers only need to provide a safe home for the dogs," she said.

The survivor confirmed that the scheme was life-changing, allowing her to move to safety while her dog was cared for. "I truly believe I wouldn't have survived without their help," she added.

Analysis: The Critical Role of Pet-Focused Support in Domestic Abuse Cases

The recent reports from survivors underline how programs like The Dogs Trust's Freedom initiative are filling a vital gap in domestic abuse support. For many victims, the presence of a pet is not just companionship but a source of emotional stability. The fear of losing their animals can trap individuals in dangerous environments, delaying their ability to seek help.

Statistics from the charity show a sharp increase in demand for temporary dog foster care, rising from 258 cases in 2023 to 422 last year. This growth highlights the urgent need for volunteers, particularly in the north-east of England, to ensure victims can safely leave abusive situations without sacrificing the wellbeing of their pets.

Authorities, including Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth, recognize the importance of these programs. With one in five police calls involving domestic abuse, and abusers sometimes using pets as leverage, fostering schemes offer a tangible, protective solution for victims and their animals.

The survivors' testimonies reinforce the program's life-saving impact. By covering all costs and providing secure foster homes, the initiative removes barriers that often prevent victims from seeking safety, demonstrating a model that other regions could replicate to support both humans and animals in crisis situations.

Sources:

• Domestic abuse victim 'had to stay' for her dog