A Connection Between Animal Abuse and Child Abuse

Is there a link between animal abuse and cruelty against humans? Professionals in animal protection and human services gathered to answer that question. The first strike conference, sponsored by the Joplin Humane Society, was held today. The purpose of the conference was to give insight into a possible connection between early abuse of animals by children. And whether it could be a warning sign of similar behaviors against humans in the future. "There`s a very high corelation among domestic violence victims they will also say animals were abused in their home. There`s a high corelation between child abuse victims. The animals were abused in the home. This is a way of letting everyone know what to look for,"said Greg Dagnan, Children`s Center. "They may be abusing the pets as a way to theaten the victim. In order for them to maintain silence. Or to maintain power and control over the victime or the children. Or even the pets as well because they don`t know how to properly care for that animal,"said Virginia Prevas, First strike Campaign. Organizers also hope to establish a local humane coalition against violence. Reported By: Brad Douglas