Conference to explore child, animal abuse link |02 September 2004

The conference is a joint initiative between the National Children’s Council and the Seychelles Society for Prevention against Cruelty to Animal (SSPCA).

According to the NCC, animal abuse is often one of the earliest signs of a child or a family in trouble, and the body of research and evidence linking animal abuse, child abuse and domestic violence keeps growing.

Both organisations have warned that the sort of person who hits or abuses a family pet may also behave violently towards children.

Delegates at the conference will include personnel from social welfare organisations, as well as the police, health and education officials and veterinary specialists.

Discussions will centre around how to spot cruelty to animals and children, links between domestic violence and abuse of animals and effective prevention measures.

"Animals and children have one thing in common – they are both vulnerable and hence easily hurt,” said NCC director Ruby Pardiwalla. "Maltreatment of animals in a family can sound a warning bell that children are also at risk. We need to recognise this link.”

Other studies suggest that children who abuse animals may grow into violent adults.

"Violence towards children and animals is an attitude of mind that needs to be tackled by a multi-agency approach," said Anne Rose-Innes, spokesperson for the SSPCA.

The two organisations hope to put the expertise gained from the conference towards informing and shaping future policies and practices in child and animal protection.

The exhibition will move to the Victoria House Arcade later during the same week.