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The National Link Coalition discusses veterinarians' essential role in identifying animal abuse and domestic violence.

Veterinarians Called the “First Line of Defense” In Breaking the Cycle of Violence
From The National Link Coalition
May 2025

Photo from Canva

A recent article in the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association’s magazine argues that because the public often feels more comfortable reporting suspected animal abuse to veterinarians than to law enforcement or humane societies, practitioners can be “the first line of defense in identifying not just animal cruelty, but also potential signs of domestic violence.”

Mandi Pratt, a member of the Board of Directors of Dogs on Deployment, writes that “understanding The Link between animal abuse, child abuse, elder abuse, and domestic violence is essential for all veterinary staff.” Citing National Link Coalition statistics and findings that veterinarians are one of the three professions most likely to encounter cases of abuse, she writes that “by acting early, veterinarians can help break the cycle of violence, protecting both animals and humans.”

Veterinarians are “uniquely positioned” for this work and can play a “pivotal role”, she writes, noting that in many states they enjoy legal protections for reporting abuse, advising clients on safety plans, directing them to local shelters, and offering temporary shelter for pets in urgent situations.

She offers suggestions as to how to engage clients in non-confrontational questioning, creating protocols for reporting suspected abuse, training staff on recognizing abuse, and building relationships with local shelters and protective services.

“Ultimately, pets are family, and their well-being directly impacts the safety and healing of domestic violence survivors,” she concludes.

- Pratt, M. (2024, October). How veterinarians can help break the cycle of violence. Southern California VeterinaryMedical Association Pulse, 68(10), 17-18.

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Posted on All-Creatures.org: May 13, 2025
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