Domestic abuse advocates say, someone in an abusive domestic relationship might hesitate to flee that situation because of a dog or cat or bird they would have to leave behind. Leaving the pet vulnerable to the abuse which could quickly lead to their death. Statistics show that about 25 to 40 percent of the 4,000 to 5,000 calls the Domestic Abuse Council of Daytona, Florida receives annually end with the victim deciding not to leave because there are no options for their dog or cat. One person who did leave the abusive relationship and left the dog behind is now haunted by the fact that her abuser killed her dog.
A group has joined forces with the Domestic Abuse Council to rescue animals caught in the middle of abusive domestic relationships. Hush Puppy Heaven has applied for nonprofit status and its organizers are hoping to recruit more people willing to foster animals temporarily while their human finds a more permanent place to stay. While shelters around the world know that something needs to be done due to liability issues they cannot house the abuse victims animals. In Daytona the Human Society will hold a pet for up to a week while other arrangements are made for their care and some shelter will allow temporary dog pens outside the facility but it takes abuse victims time and resources to find a new place to live and that generally takes time because they leave the abusive situation with nothing. This group is hoping to give abuse victims a way to save themselves and know that their pets will be safe, cared for, and loved until they can find a place to be together and safe.
