Wisconsin, Protect Animals in Domestic Abuse Disputes

Dear Wisconsin Animal Advocates,

Last year, the ASPCA contacted you about SB 162, a bill that will help animals caught up in domestic violence situations by changing the state’s definition of “domestic abuse” to include the harm or threat of harm to animals.

WI SB 162—Includes Animals in Definition of Domestic Abuse

Sponsor(s): Senators Fred Risser, Tim Carpenter and Julie Lassa

ASPCA Position: Support Action Needed: Please contact your state representative to request support for SB 162.

SB 162 expands the definition of domestic abuse to include the harm or threat of harm to the animals owned by the petitioner, the respondent, either of their children or household members.

Pets are often used as pawns in domestic violence. Without provisions to adequately protect their pets, victims of interpersonal violence may feel compelled to remain in abusive situations.

The bill passed the Wisconsin Senate last week and now moves to the Assembly, where it needs the support of your representative to become law.
Please visit the ASPCA Advocacy Center to send an email to your state representative, asking that he or she support this important humane legislation.

By including animals in the definition of domestic abuse, abused and threatened pets will have much more protection under the law than they currently do.

Thank you so much for your help, Wisconsin.