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Compassionate Care for Abused Animals: Steps to Recovery

Updated: Jul 12




Not many resources are readily available to pets for those who are seeking safety. Increasingly, at a rate of about 25%, victims return to their abusers for fear of what will happen to their pet. It’s the abuser’s way of “blackmailing” their victim. Unfortunately, pets are often caught in the crossfire of domestic violence.


Abused pets can be withdrawn and melancholy or aggressive and hostile. They almost always jump at loud noises, even a TV, or flinch when you go to pet them. Sometimes they seek their own safety or even bite the hand that feeds them. These are all normal reactions for pets who have been abused; they do not trust that they will be safe.


There are nine successful ways to handle pets who have been abused or abandoned.


  1. Pets do not trust humans very quickly after having been abused and it’s best to go at their pace, not expecting too much too fast. Some pets never recover and feel anxious around new people or other pets. For an abused dog, sometimes it’s best that they be the only pet.

  2. Pets are attuned to our emotions. If we are excited, they are too. If we are anxious, they are too. While you are excited to welcome them, don’t be too animated as the pet will likely turn inward and isolate. Sudden movements scare pets and they can become skittish and remain so until you learn to be calm around them.

  3. Treat your pet often but you must do so in a way that your pet considers a treat. Some want to play, some want to run, some want walks, and some want actual, physical treats. Giving treats is a good way to get your pet to trust you. Once you have their trust, you can begin to use treats for positive reinforcement.

  4. Let your pet investigate their new home and surroundings. Think of it as you moving to a new apartment: you want to make sure the plumbing and electric work, so does your new pet. They want to smell all the smells. They may even mark their territory in the home. Be gentle and do not punish too quickly. Simply direct them outside or put a leash on them and walk them.

  5. Give your pet a safe place, or they will find it on their own. Some pets hide under tables or behind couches. Set up a particular spot in your home where your pet can feel safe and leave them alone while they are there.

  6. Work to identify your pet’s triggers. Sometimes it’s as simple as moving around in the dark that will cause your pet to remember past trauma. Loud noises, such as fireworks, can also trigger your pet. Use soothing tones and treat your pet when they behave in a way that is acceptable.

  7. Let your pet take the lead when it comes to greeting them. Direct eye contact and full contact with your pet could be interpreted as threatening to them. Closed spaces are not good places to interact with your new pet.

  8. When you greet your pet, sit with your hands in your lap and let the pet smell you. If he/she wants further contact they will show you. Only then can you begin to stroke your pet gently.

  9. Patience is a virtue. If you are trying to interact with your pet and they walk away, let them and try again later.


Just as it is for humans, trust takes a while to build but only a moment to break. Be consistent, fair, and patient. Your pet will come around if you make the proper concessions. Every member of the family deserves to live in peace.



-Written by Tracy McIntosh


Resource: dogster.com


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