The purpose of this study was to examine the links between child maltreatment and animal abuse, how these two forms of maltreatment often occur simultaneously within a family and how the existence of one maltreatment type should alert professionals to the potential for other types of harm. File reviews were completed at both Family and Children's Services of Renfrew County (FCS) and the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA), Renfrew County Branch. Data were collected on relevant variables, including maltreatment type, removal and return of children/animals, legal involvement and risk ratings. A total of 188 common files were found, representing almost 25% of OSPCA cases in a 6-year period; 48% of these cases were open at both agencies at the same time. When the files for the two agencies were merged, several statistically significant correlations were found, including: correlations between physical harm to pets and domestic violence for FCS clients; between Criminal Code charges for FCS clients and police involvement for OSPCA clients; and between removals of children from families involved with FCS and neglect of pets. These findings suggest that there is a need for cross-training and cross-reporting between child protection and animal welfare sectors to ensure better protection of both children and animals.

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