Case studies

Since 2002, PetRetreat has helped 500 families and 600 pets - all victims of domestic abuse. Here are just some of their stories.

All names have been changed.
 

Gill's story
"I suffered domestic abuse from my husband for 24 years. A refuge told me that the RSPCA could arrange temporary foster care for my beloved cats - it was the answer to my prayers. All the people from PetRetreat and the women's refuge made it so much easier to get away from the hell that was my life."

Happily, Gill has since been reunited with her cats.

Jane's story
Jane left her violent husband and went into a refuge with her son. Her two cats were left with her husband, however after she was told that her cats were not being looked after properly, she contacted PetRetreat.

"I cried more giving the cats away than I did leaving my husband, but I think it was a relief knowing they were safe. If the RSPCA hadn't taken my cats, I think I would have gone back to him and I don't think I would have got away again. Getting the cats back was like having normality again. I felt like I was getting my life back together."

Petra the dog's story
Petra, pictured above, lived with the perpetrator of the abuse, his partner and two children. The family were leaving the abuser, so PetRetreat was able to offer fostering for Petra.

Petra is a lovely natured dog, but only has three legs. The perpetrator broke her hind leg in several places by kicking her. Sadly, she lived with a lot of pain because she was not taken to a vet for immediate treatment, and unfortunately her leg had to be amputated.

Having been on such a long and painful journey, the family thought it best for Petra to find a a new, happy home and she was signed over to RSPCA care. Five years on, Petra is a happy, healthy dog living with her two-legged and many four-legged friends.

Bernice the fosterer's story
"As a PetRetreat fosterer, I get all the benefits of having an animal, but without the longterm restriction of owning a pet. I am unable to commit to adopting an animal for life, so PetRetreat means I can experience the joy of having pets knowing I am helping not only the animal, but also many families. By doing just one little thing, you can help families get their lives back on track.

"It is fantastic when a once frightened animal is returned to its owner all happy and relaxed. To be reunited with your beloved pet must be an absolute joy."

Could you foster an animal for around six months while its family gets settled? For more information, please email: petretreat@rspca.org.uk

Help for sufferers - find out what to do if you are experiencing domestic abuse.