A Survey on "The Link" - Protecting Animals, Protecting People

Desmond's Army Animal Law Advocates invites you to take a few moments to complete this short survey to help us better understand public awareness of “The Link”—the well-documented connection between animal abuse and other forms of violence. Your responses will help us learn how familiar people are with this issue and whether there is a shared belief that stronger accountability is needed for those who abuse animals. By participating, you are contributing valuable insight that will help inform education, advocacy, and future efforts to protect both animals and communities.

Your privacy is important to us. We will not share your personal information with anyone. We collect only your name and city or town to prevent duplicate responses and to better understand whether levels of concern vary by location. All responses will be reviewed in aggregate.

Last name

First name

City/Town of residence

1.) How familiar are you with the connection between animal cruelty and domestic or interpersonal violence?

2.) Were you aware that animal cruelty is widely recognized by law enforcement and researchers as a warning sign for future violence against people?

Yes

Not sure

3.) Which forms of violence do you believe are commonly linked to animal cruelty? (Select all that apply)

4.) How concerned are you about animal cruelty as a public safety issue in Connecticut?

5.) Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: “Animal cruelty should be treated as a serious warning sign of broader violent behavior.”

6.) Do you believe stronger penalties for animal cruelty could help prevent future violence against people?

Yes

Unsure

7.) Should courts and prosecutors consider an individual’s history of animal cruelty when handling domestic violence or other violent crime cases?

Yes

Unsure

8.) How important is it to you that Connecticut’s laws reflect the connection between animal cruelty and other forms of violence?

9.) Would you support legislation that strengthens penalties and limits diversionary programs in serious animal cruelty cases?

Yes

Undecided

10.) As a Connecticut resident, do you believe lawmakers should prioritize stronger animal cruelty laws as part of public safety reform?

Yes

Unsure

11.) Have you personally experienced “The Link,” or do you know someone who has experienced a connection between animal abuse and other forms of violence?

Yes

Unsure

Prefer not to answer

Would you like to add any comments?

If you would like more information about "The Link", please go to https://nationallinkcoalition.org