A shocking fact is your neighbour, friend or close relative may be a violent animal abuser without even arousing your suspicion. These devious people are past masters at masquerading as good citizens, protective spouses, loving parents and caring pet owners, when in fact, just the opposite is true. Animal abusers come from all walks of life and income groups and are not easily identified, although they tend to isolate their victims, are often overly sweet, quietly spoken and as convincing as any professional con artist.
It is the victims who often give the game away by being timid, subservient, nervous and appear devoted to their abuser.
Sadly, the family pets are usually the first to fall victim to these cruel bullies who always pick on soft targets, incapable of fighting back.
Please note due to the sensitivity of the subject names have been changed.

Question:

My nephew James is 7 years old and I worry about him daily. He is a devious child and very aggressive. My sister divorced several years ago due to his father’s violent abuse and I thought all would be well, but now I am not so sure.
I have noticed James’s pets are dying or disappearing as fast as my sister buys them for him. First it was two gerbils which died under mysterious circumstances, then a rabbit which was found with its head bashed in and recently his 4 month old kitten has disappeared without a trace.
I have a sick feeling in my stomach because I think my nephew is an animal abuser but my sister is totally oblivious. I wondered whether I should mention my suspicions but I don’t want to upset her as she’s been though enough. Please help.
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It’s your duty to speak to your sister and voice your concerns. Tell her you are genuinely worried about your nephew and encourage her to get professional help before it is too late.
Not wanting to scare you, animal abuse is one of the 14 identified characteristics of a serial killer!

Question:

I am in my teens and I live with my mother and my stepfather who is a lawyer. They fight a lot because he often comes home late and hits her and threatens to do horrible things to me and my dog. Last year he shot our other dog with a pellet gun and uses the monkeys as target practice. I’ve also seen him kick our neighbour’s Maltese to death which came into our yard. He said if I tell anyone, my dog will be next. I feel like running away but I don’t want to leave my mom who’s also scared of him. Please tell me what I should do.

You haven’t given any personal details but you’re a very brave kid to have had the courage to write to me.
You must get help immediately because you, your Mom and your beloved dog are in great danger. Please confide in someone you trust - perhaps a teacher, a church minister, your doctor, a loving family member or phone Childline on 08000 55555 for help.

Question:

My toddler takes delight in pulling wings off moths and trying to strangle the poor cat who seems to enjoy the attention. Should I be worried?

Yes, you should be worried because you are not doing a good job as a mother. It is your responsibility to raise your child to respect animals and care for them in a loving and nurturing way.
My son, aged 8, once opened a spider to see what was inside…a mistake he clearly remembers 27 years later. In fact, he turned out an animal lover and staunch conservationist … as if he had a choice!