Paws for Safety" Partnership Protects Abuse Victims

From The Center: The Hudson Valley Humane Society (HVHS) and Center for Safety & Change (the Center) announce their new alliance in a collaborative program to relocate and assist victims of domestic violence and their pets called PAWS for Safety. The program enables victims to take refuge in confidential emergency shelters or other safe housing provided by the Center and HVHS, thereby enabling all victims to escape abuse.

Often victims of domestic abuse refuse to leave or delay leaving their domicile to seek their own safety because they may not be able to take their pets with them, and they fear for their pets’ safety if left behind with the abuser.

Experts have proven the direct correlation between domestic violence and animal abuse. It is widely accepted that those who commit acts of violence towards animals also commit violence against their domestic partners and children residing in the household. In fact, reporting animal cruelty often uncovers domestic violence and can stave off further abuse. A study suggests that in suspected child abuse cases nearly 88% included companion animal abuse[i]. And in a survey of victims of domestic violence, 71% report that their abuser also targeted the family pet.[ii]Nearly 50% of domestic violence victims have delayed leaving their abuser out of fear of harm to their animals.[iii]

The need for both human and companion animal victims to achieve safety is the driving force for the alliance between these two Rockland-based agencies.

“The Hudson Valley Humane Society has always embraced the human/animal bond and we are proud to support Center for Safety & Change in their efforts to protect and assist the victims,” stated HVHS president and humane law enforcement officer, AnnMarie Gaudio. She continued, “For the HVHS this is a natural complement to our core mission of animal welfare and humane law enforcement.”

“Center for Safety & Change has worked for over 40 years to help remove barriers and provide options for victims of domestic violence and all crimes. This new partnership with the Hudson Valley Humane Society, with their reputation for providing excellent animal care and protection, gives victims peace of mind as they seek safety and begin to heal from the trauma of their abuse,” said the Center’s Executive Director, Elizabeth Santiago.

Center for Safety & Change provides free and confidential services to victims and survivors of all crime and encourages seeking help by calling their 24 hour hotline at (845) 634-3344. Confidential reporting of animal cruelty can be done by contacting the HVHS at 845-354-3124 or via email at: reportcruelty@hvhumane.org

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About the Hudson Valley Humane Society

The HVHS is a private “no-kill” animal welfare organization chartered as a society of prevention of cruelty to animals in New York State. Founded 128 years ago in 1891, the HVHS is one of the oldest animal organizations in the United States. Established as a 501(c)3 charity, the HVHS receives no government funding and garners its financial funding from voluntary, private contributions. The HVHS has undergone 3 relocations before finding its permanent home on approximately 5 acres in Pomona. The HVHS continues to help protect and serve abused, neglected and unwanted animals.

The HVHS Humane Law Enforcement Division consists of 3 New York State Peace Officers who have full police powers and actively investigate crimes against animals in Rockland County. On average the HLE Division responds to 20 complaints per month.