An investigation into the links between domestic violence and animal abuse: the role of the veterinary professional
DOI: https:// doi. org / 10.56496 / CUIJ2307
Jessica Ross, BSc( Hons), RVN
ENVELOPE jr. jessicaross @ outlook. com
Jessica graduated from Edinburgh Napier University with a first-class BSc( Hons) degree in veterinary nursing in 2021. While at university, she also received an award recognising her commitment to animal welfare. Since qualifying, Jessica has gained a wide range of experience as a veterinary nurse, developing an enthusiasm for charity medicine and emergency and critical care nursing. Jessica is passionate about education, animal welfare and protecting the human – animal bond. Her career highlights include presenting this research at VNJ Live at BVNA Congress 2025 and supporting the development of a student veterinary nurse as a clinical supervisor. Pictured beside Jessica is her border collie, Nessie, who never fails to keep her entertained!
ABSTRACT There is a significant connection between domestic violence and animal abuse, with up to 89 % of women who had experienced an abusive relationship stating that their intimate partner had harmed or threatened their companion animal.
This study aimed to assess the awareness of the connection between domestic violence and animal abuse within the UK veterinary industry, and to determine the role and efficacy of veterinary professionals in terms of reporting cases of abuse, barriers to reporting and perceptions of the implementation of additional support.
The study found that veterinary professionals in the UK who completed a questionnaire( n = 161) demonstrated awareness of the links between domestic violence and animal abuse, but many noted a hesitance to report. Barriers to reporting potential cases included a lack of evidence; inadequate training or guidance, resulting in general uncertainty on how to manage cases of suspected abuse; inability to provide appropriate support to clients, including lack of knowledge of support organisations; and concerns about client confidentiality and the client – practice relationship. Of the participants, 93.8 % felt that the implementation of additional guidelines and protocols would be beneficial.
The author concludes that there is a requirement for further training and guidelines to assist veterinary professionals with reporting cases of animal abuse and potential domestic violence.
Keywords domestic violence, animal abuse, veterinary, reporting, non-accidental injury
14 Veterinary Nursing Journal