Intimate Partner Violence Survivors and Pets: Exploring Practitioners' Experiences in Addressing Client Needs. Issue 2 (April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hageman, Tina O'Neil; Langenderfer-Magruder, Lisa; Greene, Tamara; Williams, James Herbert; St. Mary, Jason; McDonald, Shelby Elaine; Ascione, Frank R.
• Is Part Of: Families in society. Volume 99:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 134
• Page End: 145
• Publication Date: 2018-04
• Subjects: intimate partner violence -- animal abuse -- safety planning -- safe housing -- service use; Social service -- Periodicals; Social case work -- Periodicals; Family social work -- Periodicals; Social service -- United States -- Periodicals; Family social work; Social case work; Social service; United States; Periodicals; 362.82097305
• DOI: 10.1177/1044389418767836
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1044-3894

Abstract

Research has documented a relationship between intimate partner violence (IPV) and animal abuse. Literature reports that many times IPV survivors delay seeking safety because of their concern for the safety of their pets and many shelters do not provide services for their pets. There continues to be a need for evidence-based guidelines to address the needs of survivors and their pets. This exploratory study documents the experiences of IPV practitioners from community agencies serving families impacted by IPV. Focus groups were conducted identifying four overarching themes: (1) pets as members of the family, (2) inconsistencies regarding screening practices, (3) need for comprehensive safety planning, and (4) safe housing for both survivors and their pets. Implications for research, practice, and policy are discussed.