Animal organization promotes pets to help victims of domestic violence – NBC4 Washington

Victims of domestic violence are not always able to bring their pets to domestic violence shelters. In some cases, this can even deter victims from leaving dangerous situations.

To combat this problem, Knine Rescue takes pets for immediate, short-term care until victims are in a more stable environment or can permanently rehome the pets if necessary.

“If there were programs like that, if I went through my situation, I would still be having my babies today,” said domestic violence survivor Aubrey Garner.

When Garner escaped a domestic violence situation in 2012, she was able to take her children with her, but had to leave her two dogs behind.

“I was in a bit of an escape situation. I had time to make some preparations, but not enough,” she says.

Knine Rescue director Amy Creel said the organization has helped 15 victims in the past two months.

Knine Rescue says they will respond within the day if anyone needs their services. Creel said they are always hiring more volunteers who would also be willing to help.

Dogs that have recovered from domestic violence situations and are up for adoption can be viewed on their website.