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Demand for domestic abuse pet fostering service more than doubles
Dogs Trust's Freedom scheme was first launched 20 years ago.
Dogs Trust is seeking more fosterers to support the scheme.

A pet fostering service that helps pet owners escape from domestic abuse has seen a 140 per cent rise in demand over the last five years.

The Freedom scheme, run by the charity Dogs Trust, has already received 2,303 referrals this year. In comparison, 2019 saw a total of 955. The figures have been released by the charity to coincide with 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, an annual campaign against gender-based violence.

Launched 20 years ago alongside Cats Protection’s Lifeline service, Freedom provides temporary foster homes for pets to allow people experiencing domestic abuse to leave their home without leaving their pet behind.

A survey of professionals in the domestic abuse support sector, carried out by Dogs Trust, has previously found that 97 per cent had supported a survivor whose abuser had used their pet to control or coerce them.

Laura Saunders, Freedom manager at Dogs Trust, explained: “We’ve seen first-hand the ways that perpetrators use dogs to coerce, control, physically harm and threaten as a tool to maintain power and control over their victim. This is incredibly frightening for survivors and is aimed at leaving people isolated.   

“We have heard of perpetrators not letting survivors walk their dogs alone, stopping them from accessing vet care for their dogs, or being able to spend money on dog food and even repeatedly threatening to harm, or kill their dogs.

“By offering this service, we are able to support survivors to access safe accommodation with the reassurance that their dog will be taken care of until they can be reunited.”

With demand rising for the service, the charity is keen for more people to volunteer as pet fosterers for Freedom.

Ms Saunders added: “We are busier than ever and now need more volunteers to open up their hearts and homes and provide temporary foster care so that more people can flee domestic abuse, knowing their much-loved pets will be looked after until they are safely settled.”

More information about Dogs Trust's Freedom service can be found here.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse or know someone who is, you can contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline, run by Refuge, on 0808 2000 247 at any time.

Image © Shutterstock

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.