Support Domestic Violence Victims Today at 'K-9 Krawl'

This year, 1,796 people have been charged with assault against a family member in Fairfax County, according to a news release from the Fairfax County Police.

To help victims of domestic violence, Fairfax County Police Department's Victim Services Section created the annual K-9 Krawl 5K, which takes place at the Fairfax County Government Center. The free event is set for today.

Schedule and more information: 

• Check-in: 8:30 a.m.
• Demonstration of FCPD K-9: 8:45
• 5k Walk: 9 a.m.
• Where: Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center  Parkway, Fairfax, VA 22035  (Parking Lot C)
• Register 
• For more info: 703-814-7009

So far, more than 100 local residents have signed up to participate in this year's event. Participants are encouraged to bring their dogs.

Seventy-one percent of pet-owning women who enter shelters report their batterer had injured, maimed, killed or threatened family pets for revenge or to psychologically control victims, according to FCPD. Between 25 percent and 40 percent of battered women are unable to escape abusive situations because they worry about what will happen to their pets or livestock if they leave.

The annual K-9 Krawl remembers those who have been victimized by domestic abuse and celebrates those who have survived, along with a public reminder that pets are not immune to domestic violence. Batterers often threaten, injure, maim or kill their partners’ pets for the purpose of revenge or control within relationships, FCPD noted in its news release.

The "krawl" is free and all are welcome. Organizers urge participants to bring your dog or "borrow one" from a friend although walkers are not required to have a canine companion to participate.

The event will be hosted by the Fairfax County Police Department, and will also feature an FCPD K-9 demonstration, a D.J., goodie bags and domestic violence resource tables. There will also be an opportunity for participants to have their pet’s portrait taken by a professional photographer, available for a $10 donation.