Behind every statistic about domestic violence is a real person — someone who should still be here. In Ohio, those numbers are climbing, and the trend is deeply alarming.

New data shows that domestic violence–related fatalities across the state have nearly doubled over the past decade. In 2016, Ohio recorded 81 deaths connected to domestic violence. By 2025, that number had risen to 157 — a devastating increase that reflects both systemic failures and growing risks for survivors.

In a tragic and deeply disturbing case out of Ashland County, Ohio, justice has been served following the sentencing of a woman who allowed a dog to maul her handcuffed six-year-old son.

In April 2025, the Ohio Domestic Violence Network (ODVN) launched its inaugural Survivor Voices Council, a transformative initiative supported by a $200,000 grant from the Ohio Housing Trust Fund (OHTF). This funding underscores the critical role OHTF plays in supporting life-saving programs for Ohioans facing domestic violence and housing insecurity.

At Ohio Animal Advocates, we believe that protecting animals and protecting children go hand in hand. That’s why we are urging support for H.R. 712 – the Child and Animal Abuse Detection and Reporting Act—a bipartisan bill that seeks to improve how we track and respond to child abuse cases by including animal abuse as a critical data point.

In today’s rapidly changing world, innovative programs that support both vulnerable populations and their furry companions are more important than ever. That's why we're excited to share an opportunity from RedRover—a chance for U.S. homeless shelters and domestic violence organizations to secure funding for pet-friendly initiatives. With applications due on Mar 1, 2025, this grant program could be the catalyst your organization needs to expand services and enrich lives.