Domestic Violence and Cruelty to Animals:
Victim Specific Information

If you are a victim of domestic violence and are concerned about an animal in your home …

…the Washington Humane Society is here to help you. Domestic violence and animal abuse are against the law. Do not stay in a harmful situation because you are afraid to leave your pet – WHS can offer you an option for safeguarding your animal. Please call us at (202) BE-HUMANE/234-8626.

If you are fleeing an abusive situation, My Sister's Place, a nonprofit organization providing services for battered women and their children in Washington, D.C., recommends you gather the following items if possible.

• A change of clothes
• Important documents such as identification, birth certificate, social security card, bank information, and money
• Any medication you need
• If you have children, be sure to bring these items for them as well...and a favorite toy!

Decide upon a safe place to go, as well as how you are going to get there. Be sure to have a few back-up plans in case your first option doesn't work out.

In addition, bring your pet with you and gather together as many of the following as possible.

• Dog leash and collar, or cat carrier;
• Vaccinations, medical records and dog license to show proof of ownership;
• Medicine if needed

"Violence in all forms is a destructive force in our society. The collaboration between My Sister's Place and the Washington Humane Society insures an inclusive approach to providing a safe place for every victim of violence. A woman escaping a volatile situation should be able to do so knowing that her dog or cat is safely sheltered. This partnership will certainly provide an important service to D.C. families struggling with domestic violence issues. It supports our principles to assist women to acquire the information, resources, and skills they need to move beyond violent situations and into healthy, safe, self-sufficient environments."
-Caitlin Finnegan Priest, Director of Community Education, My Sister's Place

The violence must stop. We can help.
Please call the Washington Humane Society
202-BE HUMANE (234-8626)

Domestic Violence and Cruelty to Animals
Important Contacts
Victim Specific Information
Helping a Victim of Domestic Violence
The Story of Reds
An Angel in Distress