DID YOU KNOW?

  • Up to 71% of domestic violence victims report that the abuser has threatened, harmed, or killed their pets.
  • Concern for a beloved companion animal’s welfare prevents or delays as many as 50% of victims from escaping domestic abuse.
  • Fewer than 1 in 8 domestic violence shelters are able to accommodate victims’ pets.

WHAT IS AHIMSA HOUSE?

Ahimsa House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that is Georgia’s first and only organization dedicated to helping the human and animal victims of domestic violence reach safety together.

{uh-him-sa, a Sanskrit principle of nonviolence}

MAKING CONNECTIONS

Domestic violence affects pets too.
Just like other members of the family, pets are at risk in violent homes. Abusers often target pets as a way to intimidate, control, and retaliate against the rest of the family.

When pets get hurt, everyone suffers
Witnessing someone hurt or kill a beloved pet is a significant trauma, especially for children–who may blame themselves for not being able to protect their pets.

Pet abuse can be a red flag.
Research indicates that abusers who harm pets also engage in more controlling behavior and more severe violence.

Pets need shelter too.
Nationwide, fewer than 1 in 8 domestic violence shelters accept pets. Pet abuse puts lives at risk; abusers can use pets to control or manipulate victims, and concern for pets can delay or prevent leaving an abusive situation.

AHIMSA HOUSE SERVICES

  • Up to 60 days of confidential emergency shelter for pets while their human families seek safety
  • Basic & emergency vet care
  • 24-hour hotline providing crisis intervention, safety planning, legal assistance, and information/referrals
  • Assistance with pet deposits
  • Transportation of pets to safety
  • Outreach to raise awareness about the link between domestic violence & animal abuse

HOW TO GET HELP

  • Call our 24-hr crisis line: 404-452-6248
  • If you are in an abusive situation and have not yet located a (human) shelter or; if you are in need of assistance but don’t have any pets, call Georgia’s 24 hr Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-33-HAVEN (42836)

All Ahimsa House services are available free of charge to victims of domestic violence anywhere in Georgia who need assistance with their pets to reach safety or stay safe. We aim to offer assistance to any animal in need, regardless of species or breed.

crisis line: 404-452-6248
mailing address: P.O. Box 2173 • Tucker, GA 30085
phone: 404-496-4038
email: [email protected]
website: www.ahimsahouse.org