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Abstract: 

The bond between animals and humans becomes more pronounced every year but when a family with pets is experiencing violence, domestic violence shelters are now faced with a new and different struggle. This article will address the growing need to assist families with companion animals, and discuss the solution of the Sheltering Animals & Families Together (SAF-T)™ Program which is the first and only global initiative working with domestic violence shelters to house companion animals on-site.

Keywords: “link-related” crimes; furry and feathered children; Pets positively impact physical health and reduce stress; less than half of shelters routinely ask families about pets; barrier to safety; children exposed to animal abuse; partner with animal

Affiliations:  1: Sheltering Animals & Families Together (SAF-T)™.