Domestic violence, animal abuse, elder abuse and child abuse – one form of abuse is not happening in isolation of another. That from Saskatchewan SPCA spokesperson, Leanne Sillers, who spoke at the provincial organization’s conference on the human-animal bond earlier this year.

She explains that when an animal is being abused, chances are there is more going on behind closed doors. Of the domestic abuse victims surveyed, 80 per cent reported their pets had been abused. That’s why one of the provincial organization’s goals is to have a transition house in this province that allows pets. Often, victims of domestic violence delay leaving because they don’t want to leave their animals behind. Sillers believes pets can be a source of comfort in a time of crisis.

The Saskatchewan SPCA has partnered with New Hope Dog Rescue in Saskatoon and the Swift Current SPCA for pets to be fostered temporarily. Right now there are 12 pet-friendly transition houses in Canada, with 6 each in B.C. and Ontario.