All of us have been victims of silly rules. Rules can be made for bad reasons, but most are created with good intentions and then get tangled in themselves. I came across this link from City Dog/Country Dog regarding a shelter for abused women. The story tells of a woman who was saved from her abuser by her dog. Though injured, they were both able to escape and sought refuge at a local shelter only to be told that the dog was not allowed in. The woman refused to accept that and, thank heavens, the person she spoke with saw reason and allowed them both in.
The shelter is renovating their building so that women can now stay with their pets. The organization understands not only that some women will remain in an abusive relationship fearing for the safety of the pet left behind, but also the enormous therapeutic affect a pet provides for the psyche of the person to whom they offer sanctuary. Three cheers to them for recognizing that particular rule was no longer applicable. Another cheer for offering a separate area for those with pets, so that women, who might find dogs frightening, can be separated and avoid being further traumatized. What a great example of truly serving the needs of those who seek a safe haven in which to get back their lives.
UPDATE: More on this story here: The Rose Brooks Center.
No comments:
Post a Comment