BRANFORD, Conn. — April is Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month. State officials are highlighting the link between animal cruelty, child maltreatment and other forms of violence.
“When we hear of issues of animal cruelty, there's also other things going on,” said Branford First Selectman James Cosgrove.
Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz cited data showing animals were harmed in 88% of homes where a child was also physically abused.
She says children exposed to domestic violence are three times more likely to be cruel to animals and 75% of female survivors of domestic violence report their pets were threatened or intentionally harmed by their partner.
“Their abusers often look to exploit their emotional attachment to pets, and sadly, beloved pets can become part of an abuser's coercive control over victims,” Bysiewicz said.
The state is hoping to address this “link,” by increasing communication between the Department of Agriculture (DOAG) — which oversees animal control — and the Department of Children and Families (DCF).
“It's a really important conversation, not one of the most fun things that we have to talk about at the agency, but one that we're not going to shy away from because we understand the value and importance on the benefits and the welfare, not only the animals in the state but the humans in the state,” explained DOAG Commissioner Bryan Hurlburt.
A 2011 state law, expanded in 2014, requires DCF staff and state, regional, and municipal animal control officers to work together to “cross-report” when they suspect animal cruelty and child abuse and neglect.
“Pets are becoming these unwitting victims and silent witnesses to troubled households,” State Sen. Christine Cohen, (D-Branford) said.
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The state also wants to recognize shelters taking care of those pets. The Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter in Branford has been helping homeless animals in Connecticut for two decades.
“It's a beacon of hope for those furry friends and individuals and families in really distressing situations,” added Cohen.
As shelters, like Dan Cosgrove, continue to rehabilitate and care for these furry family members, the state wants people to speak up if they suspect animal or human abuse.
“This administration has taken the position that every report and every allegation gets investigated,” Hurlburt said. “So, whether it be anonymous, or if you're willing to give your name, we will launch an investigation.”
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Emma Wulfhorst is a political reporter for FOX61 News. She can be reached at ewulfhorst@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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