Family pets were used as pawns to control victims of domestic abuse during Covid lockdowns, a study found.
Call handlers on domestic abuse helplines told a study that victims’ animals had been hurt during lockdown.
Abusers also threatened to injure pets to prevent victims fleeing abusive situations over concerns for their animal’s safety.
Disturbing details emerged from a research project by the University of the West of Scotland into the impact of the lockdown on those living with domestic abuse.
Psychology lecturer Dr Roxanne Hawkins said: “Our research shows carefully considering animals during safety planning and providing access to safe housing that allows multi-species families to stay together is vital.”
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