Help the neglected, be their voice.

Know who to call if you see an animal in need.

Every state has laws prohibiting animal cruelty and all of them contain felony provisions. However, a law is only as good as its enforcement and that's why animals rely on you to protect them by reporting animal abuse. Animals in need rely on you to bring awareness to law enforcement of their situation.

Defining cruelty

Most reported animal cruelty comes in the form of neglect, with direct violence occurring less. Oftentimes, it can be difficult to gauge whether or not you’ve witnessed animal cruelty—the following examples may help you categorize the suspected cruelty you do see.

Neglect

Neglect, or a failure to provide basic needs for an animal, makes up the vast majority of cruelty cases that animal control officers respond to. Neglect often includes hoarding, lack of shelter or veterinary care, tethering, and abandonment, as well as other forms of abuse.

Direct abuse

It can be very upsetting to see someone beating or physically attacking an animal, but it's important not to turn away. It's crucial to involve law enforcement quickly, as violence toward animals is often part of a larger pattern of violence that can include people as well.

Reporting abuse

If you witness suspected cruelty to animals, call your local animal control agency as soon as possible or dial 9-1-1 if you’re unfamiliar with local organizations. If you make a report of alleged animal cruelty, the responding agency is required to investigate.

Typically in rural areas you are required to contact the local Sheriff’s department to report anumal abuse or neglect.

Take a moment to Stand up for an animal in need.