Animal and Child Abuse: The Link of Violence

While visiting the American Humane's web page the other day, I found an item that so clearly demonstrated the importance that pets can play in our lives, that I was compelled to share the story in case our readers had not seen it. Since I have often written about the growing number of incidents of animal cruelty and talked about how child abuse is so frequently linked with cruelty to animals, I felt that this article clearly demonstrates this frightening connection. We are all aware of the fact that so many of these crimes are committed by youngsters who have been abused themselves and whose behavior, if not detected, punished and appropriate treatment provided, will go on to continue their heinous crimes of torture often " graduating" to abusing people. Oreo According to the article I read, a 9-year-old girl was sexually abused by her stepfather. When the little girl talked with the prosecuting attorney she told him that there was a witness, and "someone else" knew about it, but he was unable to "talk". Her adored pet cat, Oreo, was the "someone else" to whom she was referring. She went on to tell the attorney that each night, her brave kitty would remain outside her door and hiss at the attacker when he appeared. And while Oreo was trying to protect the little girl, Oreo also became a target for abuse when her step-father brutally kicked him away from the door to gain access to her room. After listening to the little girl's story, the prosecutor was inspired with a fantastic idea. A veterinarian was called in to examine Oreo, and it was discovered that Oreo had sustained injuries which were consistent to being physically abused. The veterinarians report was entered into evidence and shared with the jury, to demonstrate that violent behavior was in fact, occurring in the home. This evidence gave strong credibility to the little girl's assertions. And while Oreo could not "speak", his injuries spoke volumes in support of her allegations and that she was being honest. Due to the strength of the evidence presented in this case, the little girl's stepfather was found guilty and sentenced to an extensive prison term. Both the little girl and her very loyal and courageous kitty were finally able to feel safe in their home, which all humans and animals clearly deserve. You can read more about American Humane and the link between animal abuse and child abuse by visiting the American Humane webpage http://www.americanhumane.org/human-animal-bond/programs/the-link-of-violence/