Navigating Barriers to Safety & Security: Survivors and Assistance Animals
Survivors fleeing violence often face many challenges, including the heartbreaking decision to leave beloved pets behind in unsafe or unfamiliar environments. Nearly 50% of survivors delay leaving a dangerous situation out of fear for their pets' safety, yet less than 20% of domestic violence shelters can accommodate animals. This webinar will help advocates understand the link between domestic violence and animal abuse, the emotional impact of pet separation, and the healing role pets play for survivors. Attendees will also learn how to develop survivor-centered plans that align with ADA and HUD guidelines for Service and Emotional Support Animals. The training will highlight the importance of safe, confidential, and low-cost pet advocacy programs in reducing barriers to safety and healing.
In this session you will learn:
The connections between animal abuse and domestic violence, as well as the importance of bonds between survivors and their pets.
How pets positively impact trauma survivors during the healing process.
How to follow ADA and HUD guidelines for Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals while working with survivors.
Who should attend?
Domestic violence program managers and staff
Animal welfare program managers and staff
Victim advocates
Social service providers working with pet owners
Mental health program managers and staff
Presented by
Zoë Agnew-Svoboda
zagnewsvoboda@bestybnb.com
Director of Engagement and Program Development
Zoë has worked in animal welfare for over a decade. Prior to joining BestyBnB, she spent close to 8 years providing direct service to survivors of domestic violence by managing the pet advocacy program at a domestic violence agency in Kansas City, Missouri. With this program, she gained first-hand knowledge on the positive impact pets play in our lives and how the relationship we share with animals can be life-saving. Zoë regularly provides training on her vast knowledge of the connection between domestic violence and animal abuse, and how to provide pet advocacy services. In her role with BestyBnB, she partners with agencies to implement lifesaving programs for survivors seeking safety with their pets.
*BestyBnB webinars are geared toward professional development and are not intended to be utilized for therapeutic or psycho-educational purposes. If you are a survivor of domestic violence seeking help please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline.