When Safety Requires Separation: The Consequences of Inadequate Pet-Inclusive Crisis Support for Women and Pets Fleeing Domestic Violence

Abstract Purpose Women with pets requiring crisis support at times of domestic violence face unique barriers. Australia has limited pet-inclusive support services, primarily consisting of pet-friendly, time-limited emergency refuges and animal fostering programs. As a result, women and their pets may be forced to separate, increasing psychological distress and trauma. This study sought to increase understanding of pet-inclusive crisis response services supporting victim-survivors with pets, identify available crisis support, assess key factors for adequate service provision, and better understand outcomes for both victim-survivors and their pets to inform policy and service development. Method A qualitative research methodology was utilized, involving focus group discussions with professionals working across domestic violence, homelessness, legal, and animal welfare sectors in Australia who provide crisis support to women and their pets. Results Participants reported that the safety and wellbeing of pets should be central for victim-survivors. However, service responses were based on treating humans and animals as distinct entities rather than a unit. Two major themes were identified: ‘Complexities of pet-inclusive safety and recovery’ (animal-based coercive control, barriers to decision making, pet safety, inconsistent pet-inclusive responses) and ‘Working within the system’ (workforce fatigue, navigating legal channels, sharing responsibility across sectors). Housing and funding barriers were embedded across both themes. Conclusions Findings demonstrate that service responses must actively address the needs of pets in domestic violence situations. Improving outcomes requires a national One Welfare approach. A proposed One Welfare Integrated Domestic Violence Framework emphasizes collaboration across human and animal services, standardized pet-inclusive approaches, and recognition of pets as victims, to improve policy and service delivery.