Domestic Violence Shelter Improvements To Allow Victims To Stay With Pets

By Erin Conrad, News On 6

Animal lovers and victims’ advocates have joined forces to find better ways to help domestic violence victims.

The Petsmart in Owasso on Thursday handed over close to $8,000 to Domestic Violence Intervention Services (DVIS) in support of their latest project.

When the project is complete, it will put victims of abuse and their pets in a safe place together.

It's the first of its kind in the state.

"Nobody wants to leave their pet; they're like family," domestic violence victim “Nicole” said.

Victims of domestic violence often deal with making hard choices when leaving dangerous situations. They are choices that advocates say could cause them to continue putting themselves in harm’s way.

That's why DVIS is stepping up to the plate as the first shelter in Oklahoma to house the pets of victims.

"We are in the process of building a new emergency shelter for domestic violence and sexual assault victims and on the end of one wing is a kennel,” Donna Mathews of DVIS said. “That will be able to house dogs and cats, so that when people come to the shelter they can bring their pets with them."

DVIS says sometimes it’s not just the women in danger of being abused. Statistics show 71 percent of women who enter shelters reported their abuser had injured or killed their family pet for revenge or to control the victim.

"People can come to us for safety, and they know they're safe, their children are safe, but they may feel compelled to go back home just because -- just so they know what's going on at home," Mathews said.

It’s a thought Nicole says she knows all too well.

“You know, because their pet is like their child, and you know if you had to leave a child behind, you know you definitely think twice,” she said.

The new facility includes the kennel as well as a new shelter, transitional living facility and counseling services. It’s expected to open in January 2015.

If you or someone you know would like more information about the shelter or needs help -- please call 918-7HELP.ME