Southwest Allegheny News

House lawmakers and advocates gathered at the state Capitol in Harrisburg to call for the passage of a bipartisan bill aimed at protecting pets in domestic violence situations. The legislation, introduced by Representatives Christina Sappey (D-Chester) and Natalie Mihalek (R-Allegheny/Washington), seeks to amend Pennsylvania's Protection from Abuse Act. This amendment would allow judges to order defendants not to possess, abuse, or harm the petitioner's companion animal.

Representative Sappey highlighted the lack of explicit authority for judges to protect victims' pets under current laws. "We have seen through data the horrific link between domestic violence and animal abuse," she stated. She emphasized that abusers often target pets to further torment victims or prevent them from leaving abusive situations.

Mihalek, drawing on her experience as a former county prosecutor, noted that many abuse victims stay with their abuser due to concerns for their pets. "In fact, many women in domestic violence shelters report that their abuser threatened, injured or killed a pet," she said.

The Humane Society of the United States supports House Bill 1210. Kristen Tullo, its Pennsylvania state director, stressed the connection between human and animal abuse: "Research shows that up to 49% of those experiencing domestic violence hesitate to escape due to concerns for their animals."

Natalie Ahwesh from Humane Action Pennsylvania spoke about the importance of recognizing companion animals as family members: “This legislation not only prioritizes the safety of individuals but acknowledges the integral role pets play in our lives.”

Dana Friday from PAWS for Empowerment Program discussed obstacles faced by victims fleeing domestic violence without their pets. She emphasized providing services for both survivors and their animals.

The Pennsylvania Sheriffs' Association urged action on this bill in a letter to the Senate: “There is no reason any animal should go through unimaginable anguish and pain at the hands of someone who is supposed to care for them."

Sappey mentioned that 37 states plus Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico already have similar laws considering pet welfare in protective orders. "This is an issue that transcends political lines because we all understand the importance of protecting the vulnerable—whether human or animal," she remarked.

Having passed both the House and Senate Judiciary Committee, House Bill 1210 now awaits a full Senate vote before November 30 when the legislative session ends.