HOUSTON – A Houston-based nonprofit dedicated to the humane treatment of animals is joining forces with one of the city’s most trusted sources for domestic violence prevention and assistance.
Barrio Dogs and the Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC) are using the “Youth and Paws” program to reach young hearts and minds that have dealt with violence in the home.
“There’s obviously a link between domestic violence and pet abuse,” said HAWC interim CEO Sonia Corrales. “There are people who hurt people, and people who hurt pets. That’s where this intersection and this link is.”
Corrales is thrilled to have the support of Barrio Dogs founder Gloria Zenteno, leading the program that she started years ago. The Youth and Paws program teaches humane education to children across Houston, Pasadena and Pearland, visiting schools and community centers that invite them in.
The goal is multi-tiered: to prevent animal cruelty by teaching children the correct way to treat animals, educating them about the importance of spaying and neutering, and making sure they’re aware of animal welfare laws and ordinances.
Barrio Dogs is now taking that messaging to the youngest members of families living on HAWC’s new campus.
“Being able to come to the center and bring our program here is only going to create compassion and empathy for these young children who may have experienced trauma in their life,” Zenteno said. “Not only that, but teaching them about responsible pet ownership, teaching them the responsibility of loving an animal — I just think that’s a win-win for all of us.”
Breaking the cycle of abuse, whether it’s against people or pets, is the objective. According to HAWC, 70 percent of domestic violence survivors have pets, and abusers frequently harm or threaten pets to maintain control. The goal of the Youth and Paws program is to teach survivors that violence against them, or any member of the family, including pets, is never justified.
“We’ve been talking about this partnership for a while and we’re so glad that it’s come to fruition,” added Zenteno.
HAWC is just as excited about the impact the program will have. If you’d like more information on ways to help Barrio Dogs with their Youth and Paws program, or to have them visit your school or community center, go here (Programs – Barrio Dogs).
For more information on the Houston Area Women’s Center and their donation and volunteer opportunities, go here (How to Get Involved with HAWC?).