The Link Between Animal Cruelty and Human Violence

Research documents a strong correlation between animal cruelty and human violence, with implications for prevention and intervention programs.

Key Facts

Numerous studies show that animal cruelty in childhood predicts later violence toward humans
Domestic abusers frequently target family pets as part of a pattern of control and intimidation
Animal cruelty is included in the FBI's National Incident-Based Reporting System since 2016
Safe Havens for Pets programs allow domestic violence survivors to flee with their animals
Research finds animal cruelty and child abuse often co-occur in the same households

Welfare Considerations

The link between animal cruelty and human violence, often called the violence link, has substantial empirical support. Perpetrators of domestic violence frequently extend their abuse to family animals as a form of control, and survivors often delay leaving abusive situations because they cannot bring their pets. Early animal cruelty is a documented risk factor for later interpersonal violence. These connections mean that animal welfare interventions can function as violence prevention programs. Programs like Safe Havens for Pets, which provide shelter for animals while owners escape domestic violence, serve both animal and human welfare simultaneously.

What You Can Do

Support Safe Havens for Pets programs at domestic violence shelters
Report suspected animal cruelty and make the connection to human welfare explicit
Donate to animal cruelty prevention programs that also address family violence
Advocate for cross-reporting systems between animal control and child protective services
Support research into violence prevention programs that address animal cruelty early