October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the Humane Society of Greater Dayton is calling attention to a critical but often overlooked truth: violence toward animals is often intertwined with violence toward people.
Research consistently shows a strong connection between animal abuse and other forms of family violence, including child, partner, and elder abuse. Recognizing these warning signs and working collaboratively across agencies can help save lives for both humans and animals.
“At the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, we know that when animals are being abused, people often are, too,” said Brian Weltge, President & CEO of the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. “By identifying and responding to reports of cruelty or neglect toward animals, we can help uncover and prevent violence within the home. Protecting people and pets from harm is critical and it is a vital part of protecting our community as a whole.”
The Humane Society of Greater Dayton is the only agency in Montgomery County that employs Humane Society Agents. These specialized law enforcement agents are well trained Peace Officers that are sworn in by the Montgomery County Probate Court and are empowered to investigate cases of animal cruelty and neglect to the fullest extent of the law. These professionals are First Responders and are mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect, ensuring that when they encounter situations where children or animals may be in danger, they take immediate action. This dual responsibility allows agents to play a vital role in identifying and interrupting cycles of abuse that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Through its Safe Haven Program, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton also provides temporary, confidential shelter for pets of individuals and families fleeing domestic violence situations. By partnering closely with local organizations such as the YWCA Dayton and Artemis Center, the Humane Society ensures that survivors don’t have to choose between their own safety and the safety of their pets.
“Protecting survivors means protecting everything they love, including their pets,” said Teresa Sanders, Interim Chief Executive Officer for YWCA Dayton. “Domestic violence survivors often face an impossible choice: seek safety or stay with the pet that gives them comfort, protection, and unconditional love. We ensure that safety planning includes their pets because healing begins when no one is left behind.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please reach out for help:
- Contact the YWCA Dayton’s 24/7 Crisis Hotline at 937-222-SAFE (7233)
- Or call the Artemis Center’s 24/7 Domestic Violence Hotline at 937-461-HELP (4357)
Both organizations can provide more information about the Humane Society’s Safe Haven Program and assist with arranging temporary care for pets during relocation.
“For many survivors, leaving an abusive situation is an incredibly difficult decision made even harder by fear for their pets,” said Kristina Hill, One Health Project Manager and Licensed Social Worker with the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. “Through the Safe Haven Program, we remove that barrier and give families the chance to escape together. It’s a vital, lifesaving resource for people and pets alike and is a powerful example of how protecting animals and protecting people are deeply connected.”
If you witness or suspect animal abuse, contact the Humane Society of Greater Dayton at 855-PETS-911 or file a report online at www.hsdayton.org/report.
Together, we can break the cycle of abuse — because when animals are protected, people are safer, too.
