It’s not just humans who suffer when the curse of domestic violence shatters a family home – innocent pets often find themselves in pounds because women’s refuges won’t accept them.

Now they’re getting a little help, thanks the West Australian government’s $1 million-plus splash for welfare programs, animal shelter upgrades and equipment.

The RSPCA WA has been given $100,000 to continue the Pets in Crisis program which allows pets to be temporarily fostered out anonymously while their owners escape unsafe home situations.

More than $922,000 will be used for equipment and upgrades at a Malaga site while the rest will go to other projects, including four new vehicles for remote travel to kennel upgrades.

Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence Minister Simone McGurk said the money would go to “long-overdue upgrades” and help produce positive results in keeping women and children safe.

“People may find it difficult to seek help due to concern for the pet’s safety so this program may help to save both human and animal lives,” she said.

– with AAP