HARTFORD, CT — Connecticut is expanding a statewide effort to cross-report animal cruelty cases in an effort to identify potential child abuse and domestic violence inside homes.
State leaders say the link between abuse of animals and harm to children or intimate partners is significant and must be addressed through coordinated intervention.
Governor Ned Lamont joined officials from the Department of Children and Families (DCF), Department of Agriculture (DoAG), and the Connecticut Humane Society at a press conference Wednesday in Newington.
The event highlighted state-level efforts to streamline communication between agencies when suspected cruelty to animals may indicate risk to children or adults.
In 2024, DoAG referred 90 suspected animal cruelty cases to DCF, while DCF sent 107 reports to DoAG. Of those, 16 met the threshold for an abuse or neglect investigation, and 13 involved families already under DCF supervision.
State officials said the numbers reinforce what research has already shown: violence toward animals often occurs in households where other forms of abuse are present.
DCF has since increased the number of cross-reporting liaisons at its 14 offices and incorporated animal abuse awareness into mandated reporter training. These staff members coordinate directly with animal control officers, helping to flag signs of abuse across systems and deliver staff education.
Meghan Scanlon, president and CEO of the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CCADV), emphasized that when pets are harmed or threatened, victims may feel trapped in abusive households. Fear of leaving pets behind can prevent victims from seeking safety, she said.
Kathie Verano, CEO of Safe Futures in New London, said her agency has helped victims shelter their pets for eight years. Last year, the program took in about 50 animals, mostly cats and dogs, through its “Protect Our Pets” initiative.
The program works with pet-friendly shelters, hotels, and veterinary partners to ensure victims can escape danger with their animals.
Verano described one case where an 11-year-old boy refused to leave without his dog.
The shelter accommodated the animal, and the boy used the pet to communicate with counselors during therapy sessions. Verano said the ability to keep a pet can sometimes be central to a child’s ability to process trauma.
State officials pointed to national data supporting their approach. In 88% of homes where child abuse is present, animals are also harmed.
Additionally, 75% of women who experience domestic violence report threats or harm to pets as part of the abuse.
James Bias, executive director of the Connecticut Humane Society, joined child advocates and law enforcement in supporting expanded cross-agency action.
Sarah Eagan, executive director of the Center for Children’s Advocacy, warned that exposure to animal cruelty contributes to long-term trauma in children, including anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges.
Governor Lamont said cross-reporting allows agencies to identify patterns early and step in to protect all members of a household. He said the aim is to ensure no one—whether child, adult, or animal—falls through the cracks.
Programs like Desmond’s Army Animal Law Advocates also provide financial support. The group offers up to $300 to cover boarding costs for pets belonging to domestic violence survivors entering licensed safe facilities.
To report suspected animal cruelty, residents can contact local animal control or DoAG at 860-713-2506 or AGR.AnimalControl@ct.gov.
For child abuse concerns, reports can be made to DCF’s Child Abuse and Neglect Careline at 1-800-842-2288. CCADV’s 18 member agencies remain available to assist individuals with tailored support and shelter planning.
