For many of us, our pets are beloved members of the family. They bring companionship, comfort and unconditional love, and we would do anything to keep them safe.
Sadly, for some people experiencing domestic abuse, a much-loved pet can become a tool of coercion, control and intimidation. Animal abuse and domestic abuse are closely linked, with pets often used as part of a wider pattern of abuse. In some cases, this violence can escalate to serious harm and, tragically, even murder.
This Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, we are asking MPs to display the Purple Paw window sticker in their constituency office to show they acknowledge the link between animal abuse and human abuse. It's a simple but powerful way to raise awareness that protecting people and protecting animals go paw in hand.