New York City does not have even ONE pet-friendly domestic violence shelter. Seven out of every ten abused women in the United States say they are unable to escape abusive relationships in part because the abuser threatens to harm the family pet. Two out of five abused women say they don’t leave because they worry about what will happen to their dog, so they live in their cars or they stay (thereby risking their own lives, and the lives of their children). Pets are family members and provide tremendous therapeutic benefits that outweigh any inconvenience or costs a shelter may incur.

Shouldn't New York City provide pet-owning victims of domestic violence with a safe haven for them, their children AND their pets? Why should victims have to choose between staying in an abusive relationship and leaving their pets behind? And what about the pets' well-being?

For those of you who have personal stories you are willing to share, please email them to me at naomianddillon@gmail.com.  I would like to present a collection of stories together with the petition.  I will not reveal your identity.