Pets in crisis program extended following $1m boost from state government

The state government has committed another $1 million to help care for the pets of victims of domestic violence amid a huge surge in demand.

A refuge program for the animals of domestic violence victims will be extended as the RSPCA reveals a surge in demand for the service.

The Queensland government committed an additional $1 million to extend the pets in crisis program by another five years.

RSPCA’s Lorraine English said the number of pets cared for by the program rose to 140 so far this year, which was “roughly twice as many” as the year before.

The program, run in partnership with the animal welfare body and support provider DVConnect, offers a valuable service to victims given the disturbing rates of abuse channelled through pets.

Studies showed 49 to 71 per cent of domestic and family violence victims have witnessed their abusive partner threaten, harm or kill their pets, Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Minister Yvette D’Ath said.

Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Minister Yvette D’Ath and the RSPCA’s Lorraine English. Picture: Richard Walker

Alarmingly, 25 per cent said they would consider staying with the perpetrator of violence for the safety of their animals.

“We know it can be difficult for DFV victim-survivors to find emergency accommodation that can also accommodate animals,” Ms D’Ath said.

“This funding from the Palaszczuk Government will help ensure Queenslanders experiencing DFV do not feel like they need to sacrifice their safety in order to protect their beloved pets.”

RSPCA chief executive Darren Maier said the use of animals as a form of coercive control in domestic violence is a “real issue”.

“The demand for our pets in crisis program has grown this past year, so continued funding is certainly welcome,” he said.

“It means our teams can continue to provide pets a safe haven while owners seek safety themselves.

“Seeing pets reunited after their stay with us and owners safe is what the program is all about.”