Viewing 8 reply threads
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    • #72728
      bluhead
      Participant

      Hi, my partner becomes more abusive and unstable. I have a dog and I don’t want to lose it.

      I’m afraid I may lose it if I go to refuge. Anyone know can I go to refuges with my dog?

    • #72751
      Lisa
      Main Moderator

      Hi there,

      If you need more information about refuge call the National Domestic Violence Helpline. Their number is 0808 2000 247. They can talk through any options with you.

      Best Wishes
      Lisa

    • #72772
      Iwantmeback
      Participant

      Most refugees won’t allow pets, I’ve heard that dogs trust won temporarily look after your pet until you’re in a position to have them back. Many abusers hurt our furbabies, my oh does.😥
      IWMB 💕💕

    • #72778
      maddog
      Participant

      RSPCA runs a scheme called Pet Retreat which fosters animals in cases of domestic abuse. Although they don’t operate in my area, they were very kind and did their best to help.

      It is a real pity that there is no nationwide facility for fostering dogs or any other animal when people need to escape.

    • #74976
      Anonymous
      Inactive

      Refuge should allow pets providing you can keep them in your room

    • #74994
      Lisa
      Main Moderator

      Hi Bluhead,

      Just to clarify, in general refuges do not accept dogs. There are however excellent pet fostering schemes where a pet can be looked after temporarily for your stay in refuge, and then be returned to you when you have suitable longer term accommodation. The Helpline can advise you regarding these pet fostering schemes.

      You can read more about refuge, including about pets, in the section of the Survivor’s Handbook called ‘What is a refuge and how can I stay in one?’

      Kind Regards,

      Lisa

    • #92927
      Iwantmeback
      Participant

      I’ve recently heard of assistant dogs. Would they be included in refuge accommodation lisa?? My oh is threatening to harm my dog,he’s already,as far as I am concerned caused the death of my other dog. I still go to my previous home to walk my dog, I’m having difficulty in sleeping for fear of what he might/could do. I’ve been trying to get to the bottom of why I’m not sleeping,and it wasn’t until I spoke to someone objectively that they pointed this out to me. I need to keep her safe,she is my life,my raison d’etre. Plus I know that wa do allow some of us to have our pets.

      • #92960
        Lisa
        Main Moderator

        Hi Iwantmeback,

        Again, I’m afraid there’s no ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer for this as it would be down to the individual refuge. It’s unlikely but it would definitely be worth checking with the refuge whether this is a possibility just in case.

        If you’re worried about your dog you could also call the RSPCA and report the threats that he’s been making. You could also call the Dog’s Trust to see if they have any suggestions for you; they may be able to take your dog into fostering.

        Best wishes,
        Lisa

    • #92981
      maddog
      Participant

      I would love to see a nationwide fostering scheme for animals of people escaping domestic abuse. It’s so patchy. I thought about getting a caravan to over-winter in. It is so often the company of animals which keeps us going and our animals are part of the family. I doubt that many refuges are equipped to cope with animals. It would be amazing if they were! My dogs are so much less afraid and less ill now my ex isn’t around to upset them.

    • #92987
      Iwantmeback
      Participant

      Thanks Lisa, I’ve drafted a letter as I know some of the ladies do have their dog’s with them,(certain circumstances) will let you know how I get on. I’m really quiet anxious about giving support worker the letter, guess it’s cos I’m asking for something I really want, I don’t want to come across as a trouble maker (I’ve always been used to being told no by my oh) and being asked to leave here, which I know is ridiculous,
      IWMB 💞💞

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