PHOTOS: K-9 Krawl for Domestic Violence Awareness

The Fairfax County Police Department held their 5th Annual K-9 Krawl 5K on Saturday morning. The event was created to bring awareness to the connection between animal cruelty and domestic violence.

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, October is designated Domestic Violence Awareness Month to "mourn those who have died because of domestic violence, celebrate those who have survived, and connect those who work to end violence."

Experts said pets are often used by batterers in domestic violence cases. Batterers will often threaten to kill or injure a partner's or children's pets for the purpose of revenge or control.

Fairfax County provides help for domestic violence victims through the Office for Women & Domestic and Sexual Violence Services.