In the UK, there are only two refuges that allow working dogs to stay with their owner if they are fleeing domestic abuse. Meaning people who are visually impaired, deaf or are prone to seizures, have to be separated from their pet who ultimately, can save their life. 

By allowing working dogs to accompany their owner when they require a refuge, it will allow the individual at risk to remain protected by their animal who knows the key signs to look out for if danger comes their way. 

It is so important that we come together to make the change so that ALL individuals experiencing domestic abuse know there is a safe place they can come to, with their working companion. By having their pet by their side, may allow the individual to feel a little more at ease during this traumatic time and I personally do not comprehend why refuges would risk more harm coming to the victim by turning them away as they have a working animal. 

To put it into perspective for those of us who do not require working animals to help us through daily life, the well known budget hotel 'Premier Inn' welcomes all guests who require working companions, providing they have the appropriate paperwork and/or informative coat, collar or lead.  Read that again. A budget hotel allows ALL guests who have working animals to stay with them, whatever the reason for their visit. The fact that refuges protecting men and women from abuse cannot offer this is unacceptable. It is not the victims fault they need an assistance animal and it is certainly not their fault they have fallen into the hands of an abuser. This type of service needs to be available to everyone, nobody should be turned away if they are at risk.

The legal definition of domestic abuse - 'Domestic abuse, or domestic violence, is defined across Government as any incident of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members, regardless of their gender or sexuality'

This proves that in fact ANYONE, can experience domestic abuse. Not just individuals who are fortunate enough to not have such conditions. 

So please help me to make the change that so desperately needs to happen. More refuges in the UK need to allow assistance dogs to accompany their owner when they are fleeing domestic abuse. Two is simply not good enough.

Help me keep more victims safe.