Animal lovers find it hard to believe that anyone could abuse or neglect their companion animal but unfortunately it happens more often than we would like to think. In many cases the individual or family never wanted to cause harm to their pet and some are not even aware that they are being abusive but due to old age, mental and physical disabilities, a busy family life or a lack of education, the animal becomes neglected and/or abused.
It’s up to responsible and compassionate outsiders to keep their eyes and ears open for signs of abuse and to report it. Most states in the USA have laws against animal cruelty and 49 consider some forms a felony. It’s a serious matter and everyone needs to give animals a voice because they cannot express their pain and unhappiness on their own.
Some forms of abuse are very obvious such as killing and torturing and forcing dogs to fight but there is also the kind of abuse that people can easily turn a blind eye to such as dogs that are always chained in the yard and never go inside or for walks. This is abuse and many animals suffer for years before someone stands up for them. Anyone can make a big impact by doing their part and reporting abuse and neglect when they spot the signs.
Signs of Abuse and Neglect
- Dogs that are left outside all of the time, typically chained in the yard
- Dogs that are left in the yard with no shelter and a constant supply of food and water
- Cats that used to be indoors but now seem to be outside all of the time
- Flea and tick infestations
- Limping
- Emaciated
- Wounds
- A very tight collar that is causing wounds
- Dogs that act aggressively when the owner comes near
- Dogs and cats left in cars with the windows rolled up
- Pet hoarding where there is too many animals that could not possibly all be cared for
- Abandoned pets after an owner leaves
- Pets that seem to be left alone for long periods of time with no walks/visitors etc.
If you think an animal is being abused it is always best to report it. In the best case scenario you made a mistake out of concern, and if the animal has been neglected or abused, it can begin to get the help it deserves.
How to Report Animal Abuse and Neglect
- Start by contacting your local animal welfare or humane society in your area. If you are unsure you can also contact the police department and they will refer you to the proper organization that will help.
- The authorities will want to know details of the abuse including the exact concern, where it happened, the time and date.
- Any photographs or videos of the animal and its environment should also be included if it can be accomplished safely and without trespassing on someone’s property. It is also best to be cautious and aware of aggressive animals or pets that are afraid and in pain.
- You may also be asked to provide contact details of anyone else that was present when you discovered the abuse and/or neglect and possibly neighbors or individuals that would also have been a witness.
Humane Drum is a nonprofit that uses donations to provide urgent need dogs and cats with food, shelter, vaccinations and surgery. Most of these animals have been rescued thanks to the compassion of an individual that decided to file a report. To make a donation so we can continue to provide education, resources and second chances to animals that have been neglected and abused please Visit Us.