Reporting animal cruelty in dogs, cats and other pets

The stories you may have heard about animal cruelty are heart-breaking – neighborhood kids setting a dog on fire, organized cock fighting, a roadside zoo at which animals are beaten into submission and kept in horrible conditions. There are instances of neglect, too, in which an owner is not providing proper shelter, food or veterinary care for a companion animal.

Animal cruelty laws exist to protect the helpless

Many people who witness cruelty, neglect or animal abuse are not aware that legal action may be taken; some may be frightened to register a formal complaint for fear that the abuser will find out. But if it weren't for concerned citizens, humane organizations and police departments wouldn't know about many instances of animal cruelty. You can make a difference.

Report animal cruelty to your local SPCA or law enforcement agency

If you witness, or hear about, animal cruelty, abuse or neglect taking place, you can help stop the suffering by reporting it to your local SPCA, humane society or law enforcement agency.

Animal cruelty can be stopped

Talk to local teachers, veterinarians, and the clergy. The more people who are aware of the animal abuse plaguing our society, the less chance there is for abusers to hide. It is becoming increasingly clear that people who abuse animals are also linked to domestic violence, spousal and child abuse. And make sure schools in your town include humane education in their lesson plans; children who learn to love and respect animals will grow up to be compassionate adults.

You can also help those who are working to stop animal cruelty by supporting your local animal rescue organization or shelter by donating money and supplies, or, better yet, your time. Volunteer at a local humane society, foster a shelter animal or adopt a companion animal. Promoting and practicing responsible pet ownership is another way to stop many abuses from starting.