- Unmet Service Requests:*On September 26, 2023, the National Network to End Domestic Violence released its 17th annual national census data, revealing that victims made 712 requests for services that programs were unable to fulfill due to insufficient resources. Approximately 66% of these unmet requests were for emergency shelter, hotels, motels, transitional housing, and other housing options.highlighting the persistent issue of insufficient resources to meet the growing demand for emergency shelter and housing.
- Increase in Requests:Data from February 15, 2023, shows that domestic violence homicides in Oklahoma slightly decreased in 2022. However, the number of requests for emergency shelter and housing, as well as past abuse reports, increased by 10% compared to the previous year.
- National Rankings: For over 20 years, Oklahoma has consistently ranked among the top 10 states for women murdered by men in domestic violence incidents. The most recent rankings place Oklahoma as the second highest state in the nation for women killed by men.
https://oklahoma.gov/content/dam/ok/en/okdhs/documents/newsmedia/okdhsdomesticviolencefactsheet-comm-10042012.pdf
Foster Program: Create a foster program where domestic violence victims can temporarily care for shelter dogs in need of a home. This benefits both the dogs by providing them with temporary care and socialization, and the victims by offering companionship and emotional support
Therapy dog training: train carefully and evaluated shelter dogs to become certified therapy dogs that can provide emotional support to domestic violence victims in shelters or during counseling sessions.
Hope Haven: Purchase land to build tiny homes for domestic violence victims and their pets, fostering healing, independence, and hope in a supportive community enviornment.
Educational Workshops: Educate survivors on benefits of animal companionship and therapies, teach life skills, provide coaching and resources for rebuilding lives, offering healthier coping mechanisms and fostering empowerment, hope, and independence.
Uniting support for shelter dogs and domestic violence survivors creates a holistic approach, nurturing the well-being of both, fostering growth, purpose, and a compassionate community, providing a sense of belonging and empowerment.
More Statistics
According to recent statistics, Oklahoma has one of the highest rates of domestic violence in the United States. In 2024 it is estimated that over 25,000 cases of domestic violence will be reported in the state. This issue affects individuals of all ages, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds, and it is important to raise awareness and provide resources for those who are affected.
According to the Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault 71% of pet-owning women entering domestic violence shelters reported that abuser had threatened, injured, or killed family pets. Additionally, the Oklahoma Alliance for Animals reports that animal cruelty is often a precursor to violence against humans. It is to address both domestic violence and animal welfare in to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals and animals.
82% of individuals with PTSD report reduced symptoms after working with a service dog.Source: Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology (Yount et al., 2020)
