Dogs Trust urges the people of Buckinghamshire to consider fostering dogs to help people and their animals fleeing domestic abuse.

Almost nine in ten professionals working in the domestic abuse sector have seen cases where a pet has also been abused according to new statistics released by the Dogs Trust.

This follows the charity having launched its Freedom project in Bucks which supports people leaving domestic abuse by providing temporary accommodation for their dogs.

The charity has already launched the service in London and five of the home counties and are excited to have expanded to Buckinghamshire.

The statistics showed that 98% of professionals said that dogs are often used as a means of controlling someone experiencing domestic abuse and that some survivors won’t leave their home without knowing their pet will be safe.

Claire Paine, Deputy Head of Services at domestic abuse charity Aylesbury Woman’s Aid, said: “Many women find it difficult to leave abusive relationships because they are worried about their beloved pets.

“We are so grateful to Dogs Trust for their innovative Freedom Project.

“Knowing that their dog will be safe, secure and returned to them when they are settled, removes one of the barriers to leaving.”

The service currently operates across the whole of Scotland and in 29 counties across England which has has helped 1,418 dogs and 1,083 people since launching.

Louise Gostling, Dogs Trust Freedom Project Coordinator for Greater London and the Home Counties, said: “We have recently expanded our Freedom Project nationally to support even more survivors and their pets from abuse.

“We need foster carers in Buckinghamshire so that we can continue this life-saving work.”

For more information on the service, visit www.dogstrustfreedomproject.org.uk or contact freedomproject@dogstrust.org.uk or call 0800 298 9199.