I want to stop pets being used to control domestic abuse victims - in 12% of cases, they're killed themselves
“The law should do more to protect victims of domestic abuse and the pets that are often a source of reassurance, comfort, and strength.”
Blackpool North and Fleetwood MP Lorraine Beavers has backed Ruby’s Law, a campaign calling for stronger legal protections for victims of domestic abuse and their pets.
Beavers said pets should not be used as a means of control in abusive relationships, highlighting figures which she said show the impact domestic abuse can have on animals. “Pets should never be used as weapons in domestic abuse, or be the victims of it but 90% of houses facing domestic abuse say they pet suffers too and in 12% of cases, the pet is killed,” the MP said.
Ruby’s Law aims to strengthen legal protections for domestic abuse victims and their pets. The proposals include enabling courts to fully consider pets when making occupancy orders and non-molestation orders, as well as broadening the understanding of domestic abuse to include circumstances involving pets.
Beavers said pets can be used by perpetrators as a way of maintaining control over victims and continuing contact. “In too many cases pets are used a tool to strengthen control, frighten victims, and continue contact,” she said.
“The law should do more to protect victims of domestic abuse and the pets that are often a source of reassurance, comfort, and strength.”
The MP said she supported Ruby’s Law and would continue to work in Parliament on protections for people experiencing domestic abuse. “I stand with Ruby's Law as they work to better protect victims and pets and will continue to work in Parliament to protect domestic abuse victims.”