Research consistently shows connections between animal abuse and interpersonal violence; animal welfare and human welfare are deeply intertwined.
The link between animal and human welfare is not merely philosophical but empirical. Communities where animals are protected are communities where human violence is lower. Addressing animal abuse addresses an early indicator of violence that can prevent future human harm. Safe haven programs for pets of domestic violence victims protect both animals and humans simultaneously. The moral circle of animal and human welfare overlaps more than many advocates recognize.