Protecting pets in domestic violence cases will take more than a law change

Getty Images We have known for a long time that when humans are abused in the family, it’s likely any companion animals in the household are also being abused – and vice versa. So the ACT party’s recently announced policy to amend the Crimes Act to address the issue is certainly welcome. The change would make it illegal to use companion animals to coerce or control victims in violent family relationships. It would also strengthen protection orders to ensure offenders can’t withhold, sell, give…