Photo: WikiMedia
Panzer, a 6-year-old Lab mix, has made history by being the first dog ever to be awarded a restraining order. It should be noted that the dog was granted a restraining order along with his owner, a 38-year-old mother, and her son. The boyfriend of Panzer's owner, allegedly violent, can no longer see the dog or the family. While it may not seem like a big deal, it is.
In all, 22 states and Washington, D.C., include pets in protection orders. According to animal protection agencies, some 70 percent of abused women report that their batterers threatened to kill their pets. Making matters worse is that 50 percent of victims delay leaving abusive homes out of fear that their animals might be harmed.
This means that not only is Panzer's protection an animal rights issue, but indirectly may change the lives of many abused women now that their pets can be protected.
Panzer is currently living with a foster family and the mother is with her son, temporarily living in a shelter. They will be reunited once the woman is able to move into a safe environment.