Pets as Weapons in Abuse | Wellington News

New Zealand’s Act party is pushing groundbreaking legislation to criminalize using pets as tools of control in domestic violence, tackling a hidden but devastating tactic that traps victims between their safety and their animals’ well-being. With evidence showing pets are often left with abusers during police responses — fueling fear and coercion — the party proposes new laws including prison penalties, stronger protection orders, and police powers to safeguard animals. As shelters like Pet Refuge report a 20% surge in pet-related abuse cases, Act argues New Zealand must catch up with Australia and 40+ U.S. states that already recognize this form of domestic coercion. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/561a0423a5fd9a4d