We often see in our work that pets become collateral in abusive relationships, whether through the threat of actual physical harm to the pet, or by exerting emotional control over a partner or ex partner by withholding access to the pet. That’s why we were really pleased to read that the campaign for pets by barrister Christina Warner to secure stronger protection for pets in domestic abuse cases has gotten closer to securing reforms.
What is the ‘Ruby’s Law’ Campaign?
The Domestic Abuse (Pets) Bill begun in Parliament in March, and will continue to progress through Parliament. It aims to do three things:
- Make provision for the application of non-molestation orders and occupation orders to behaviour relating to pets;
- Amend definitions of controlling or coercive behaviour and economic abuse to include behaviour relating to pets, and
- Extend the application of Domestic Abuse Protection Orders to pets
Shockingly, some 90% of households experiencing domestic violence in England and Wales also reported that the animals were abused by their perpetrators, and in 12% of these households, the pet was killed. Pets are often used by abusers to control their partners in abusive relationships, and often means that victims do not leave as quickly, or return to dangerous environments because they’re worried about their pets.
Domestic Violence Reforms
This Bill aims to address gaps in the Family Law Act 1996 to ensure that pets are protected, whilst recognising the element of abusive and coercive behaviour involved when pets are abused and threatened. Vet records, witness testimony, and digital evidence of threat and harm to pets would be admissible in court as evidence as a breach of an order under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. This would then allow courts to use animal abuse as aggravating factors in sentencing and risk assessments. We’re really pleased to see further protections for those experiencing abuse, and will be watching the progression of the Bill through Parliament closely.
Please see here on our website for more information on our team that specialise in domestic violence and legal aid, and please always get in touch if you are worried about yourself or a loved one who you think may be experiencing domestic violence.
