The Link Between Domestic Violence and Animal Abuse
February 3rd, 2026
By Dr. Amanda Landis–Hanna, DVM and Board Director, and Katie Campbell, President and CEO –
DR. AMANDA LANDIS-HANNA, DVM and RedRover Board Director
VMX is the largest veterinary conference in North America, with more than 20,000 attendees (plus a few animals). This conference is an annual opportunity to gather with other veterinary professionals in Orlando, Florida, and is considered the premier conference for veterinary teams.
This year, we worked with the Human Animal Bond Association (HABA) to develop a track of lectures on increasing access to veterinary care. Our President and CEO, Katie Campbell, and I had an opportunity to present information about the role that domestic violence and animal abuse (called “The Link”) have on animal care. We also participated in a panel discussion on providing accessible care to clients with barriers to traditional veterinary care.
One of the major challenges veterinary teams encounter with The Link is understanding their role and legal protections regarding reporting. Veterinary teams are often fearful of “getting it wrong,” where the appearance of suspected abuse may actually be a lack of resources or education. In these cases, veterinary teams do not have the ability to directly provide resources, rather they see an instance of an animal in poor health and want to help the animal without alienating the client.
The conversation at VMX was robust, with lots of positive feedback on the presentation and education we were able to provide.
To learn more about the role veterinarians can play in supporting pets and people in crisis visit: RedRover.org/VeterinarianResources.
KATIE CAMPBELL, RedRover President and CEO
There’s no denying that the veterinary community plays a critical role in keeping domestic violence survivors and their pets safe and together. From recognizing potential signs of abuse, to knowing how to ask and connect survivors with local resources, to supporting local human services organizations, veterinary professionals and staff are a key part of community-centered and holistic programming.
Recently, I discussed this with members of this special community at the Human Animal Bond Association’s “Access to Veterinary Care” track at the 2026 Veterinary Meeting and Expo (VMX) conference in Orlando, Florida. As many of us know, access to veterinary care is an issue that affects pet families across the country. And it’s a complex issue including rising costs, veterinary deserts, and equitable access to care – a particular concern for some of our most vulnerable populations, including those experiencing domestic violence or homelessness.
While there’s a long way to go in solving these issues, I’m heartened by the commitment of those I met at VMX to enter into the conversation. For many, it’s clear that they seek the best path forward to support both pets and pet parents, acknowledging the powerful role of the human-animal bond on both species.
