1 December 2025, 14.00-16.00 CEST

The Link Between Domestic Violence & Animal Abuse: The Role of Human Service Professionals

by Leen Van Brantegem

Pets are increasingly regarded as full-fledged family members. They enhance our quality of life by providing unconditional affection, security, and joy, and offer comfort during difficult times such as bereavement, illness, or other family challenges.

Research shows that in households where domestic violence occurs, pets are often also victims of abuse or neglect – and vice versa. Animals can not only be directly harmed but may also be used as tools to manipulate, intimidate, or control victims. The strong emotional bond between humans and their pets often makes victims hesitant to leave abusive situations if their animals are at risk. It is therefore crucial to recognize the significance of pets in vulnerable families. Attending to this bond can help prevent animal suffering while also contributing to the recovery of human victims.

Focus webinar

During the webinar there will be focus on:

• Awareness raising of the importance of pets within families and of the connection between family problems, domestic violence, and animal abuse or neglect, known as ‘THE LINK’
• Enabling participants to recognize signs of animal suffering – such as poor living conditions, fearful behavior, injuries, or poor physical condition – even without extensive knowledge of animal health.
• Promoting collaboration between human service and animal professionals to enable more effective action in cases of suspected abuse or neglect within a multidisciplinary approach.

Leen Van Brantegem

Leen Van Brantegem is a veterinarian and a European Specialist in Veterinary Pathology, she is a specialized on forensic veterinary pathology and the link between animal abuse and domestic violence. Her research focuses on forensic veterinary pathology and the connection between animal abuse, neglect, and domestic violence.

Registration

Registration is free. Language is English.