How pets are keeping victims trapped in violent homes

A major barrier to escaping family violence, is the heartache of leaving your pet behind to get out.

Every day, pets are used as tool to control and harm victims experiencing family violence.

Pet Refuge provides a safe, temporary haven for pets - and demand for their shelter is at an all-time high.

They've reported a 19% increase year on year for help.

So, what does this say about New Zealand's unacceptably high and persistent rate of family violence?

Today on The Front Page, Dame Julie Chapman is with us to take us through the often forgotten lives of the pets caught in the crossfire.

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You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network.

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