Mariska Hargitay Joins Effort to Make Domestic Violence Shelters Pet-Friendly So Families Can 'Heal Together' (Exclusive)

When Mariska Hargitay learned that nearly fifty percent of survivors of domestic violence delayed leaving their abuser because they did not want to leave their pet, Law and order: SVU the star went into action.

“For fifty percent of survivors to have to choose between their own safety and the safety of their pets is simply unsustainable,” the beloved star, advocate and pet lover tells PEOPLE.

That’s why she partnered with the Purple Leash Project — an initiative by Purina and RedRover to make domestic violence shelters more pet-friendly.

“For survivors of physical injury, the number one challenge is isolation,” says Hargitay, 60. “And the idea of ​​supporting a survivor’s healing with their animal, so they can heal together, was so beautiful to me.”

As a survivor herself and the founder of the Joyful Heart Foundation — a non-profit organization with a mission to transform society’s response to sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse — she has long fought to help others heal.

Mariska Hargitay helped Purina unveil “Courageous Together,” a new statue of Kristen Visbal in support of the Purple Leash Project.

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“A survivor having to choose between their own safety and the safety of their pet speaks to women and their caring nature – and loving your pet as you would a child, that unconditional connection, that’s so human,” adds Hargitay.

On May 6, Hargitay unveiled a new statue in New York’s Times Square as part of her work with the Purple Leash Project. The artwork “Courageous Together” shows a woman and her dog, connected by a purple leash, taking the first step forward together. Artist Kristen Visbal, known for her “Fearless Girl” sculpture, created the piece that will travel to various venues around the country, including the 2024 Westminster Dog Show.

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“It’s elegant, powerful and strong,” Hargitay says of the sculpture commissioned as part of the Purple Leash project.

“There’s a way he starts a conversation with this woman, boldly stepping forward with his beloved pet, looking at her, like, ‘I’ve got you and I’m with you. No matter what,'” she continues, adding that the work “is so meaningful to me.” .

Mariska Hargitay with the “Brave Together” statue in New York.

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As Hargitay has shown in her own life, facing challenges means taking the first step. The actress is encouraging others to join her in supporting the Purple Leash Project to protect survivors and their pets.

“The first thing people can do is go to Purina.com/together and learn more about the Purple Leash Project, but also have a conversation,” she says. “Don’t be afraid to talk about domestic violence and get the community going – and listen. It’s so important, especially with sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse, to really learn how to listen and be there for someone. Because when someone is testifying to you, it’s just a big part of their healing.”

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Owner of Kaia the dog and her cat Karma, Hargitay understands the connection and support a pet can provide.

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“At home, I found it in myself, especially in my children and husband, when one of us is sick or [her youngest son] Andrew is not feeling well, Kaia will jump on his bed. And it’s always amazing to me how this animal is so intuitive and naturally protective and gives that unconditional love,” she shares.

She experienced it too. Hargitay says, “Sometimes, even if I’m sad or I’ve had a hard day, I can feel Kai’s watchful, empathetic, compassionate, protective gaze.”

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Source: HIS Education