Violence: Remember four-legged victims

As we begin to look for ways to give back to people in the community who are less fortunate than us, many give to organizations that support homeless pets.

Often forgotten in this holiday season of giving are the pets of domestic violence survivors, which often face significant abuse as well. Animal abuse in the home is often correlated with an increased risk of escalated abuse that can result in death and permanent injury of all family members.

Animals are often a source of comfort for those going through domestic abuse, yet victims who flee are often forced to leave their beloved pets behind because there are so few shelters and safe spaces to bring a pet.

Please consider giving to organizations like the YWCA that support all family members recovering from DV, including those special furry loved ones.

This story was originally published December 13, 2016 at 4:53 PM with the headline "Violence: Remember four-legged victims."