How Act 146 Protects Domestic Violence Survivors and Their Pets

Domestic violence affects millions of families every year–and that includes pets, who are frequently targeted by abusers. In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we’re highlighting our work to get Act 146 passed–a groundbreaking Pennsylvania law that provides protections for domestic violence victims and their pets. Learn more about Act 146 and how you can take action to support our work.

The need for Act 146

More than 12 million people in the U.S. experience domestic violence each year. For victims with pets, this often includes the extra threat of harm against their beloved animals.

Survivors often delay leaving abusive situations out of fear for their pets’ safety, and 25% have reported returning to an abusive partner out of concern for their pet.

71% of women with pets entering domestic violence shelters reported that their abuser had harmed, killed, or threatened a pet.

41% of domestic violence offenders have histories of animal cruelty.

Breaking down Act 146

Photo from We Animals

Key provisions of the law include:

• Inclusion of pets in PFAs: Judges can specify in PFA orders that abusers are prohibited from harming, threatening, or having any contact with the victim’s pets.
• Removal and custody of pets: The law allows for the removal of pets from the abuser’s residence and places them under the temporary care and custody of the victim or a designated safe shelter.
• Enforcement and penalties: Violations of the PFA, including those related to pets, are subject to the same legal consequences as other violations of protection orders.

Act 146 is expected to have several positive outcomes for victims and their animals:

• Victims can leave abusive environments without fear for their animals’ safety.
• Abusers lose a significant “tool” of manipulation and control.
• Victims may be more likely to report domestic violence since it will help ensure their pets are protected.

The passage of Act 146 was the culmination of a multi-year campaign spearheaded by Humane Action Pennsylvania, Representatives Christina Sappey (D-158) and Natalie Mihalek (R-40), and a dedicated coalition of animal welfare groups, domestic violence organizations, children’s advocates, and law enforcement agencies. The coalition worked to secure passage of HB1210 in the PA House in June 2023, and then helped ensure a virtually unanimous vote in the Senate in November 2024. On November 18, 2024, PA Governor Josh Shapiro signed HB1210 into law, officially becoming Act 146.

How you can take action

Act 146 is a significant win, but our work continues. Help us:

• Raise awareness about the connection between animal welfare and domestic violence by sharing HAP’s HB1210 Fact Sheet.
• Advocate for pets and people by joining our Ending Companion Animal Cruelty Coalition.
• Pass more laws that protect animals by signing up for our Action Team.

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE. Note that many domestic violence shelters now offer pet accommodations; check with local shelters for availability.