The relationship between domestic violence and animal abuse is called the ‘cruelty link’. In this article, this relationship is discussed from different perspectives. First, the literature on the cruelty link is reviewed. Second, victims of domestic violence and animal cops are questioned. Finally, the experience of experts in the field of animal welfare and domestic violence is discussed. The research findings support the relationship between domestic violence and animal abuse, but interpretation of these results should be drawn with caution. In order to come to a more detailed insight in different aspects of this relationship, further research will be necessary.

Animals appear to be increasingly incorporated in pet assisted activities and in pet assisted therapies in detention. But if one reviews the literature on these projects, it becomes clear that not much attention is being paid towards methodological issues. In this contribution, a set of questions is presented in order to help those that are interested in starting such a program to construct a more thoroughly thought through project. In such a project, animal welfare should be one of the key features.