Raise the Red Flag: Spotting and Reporting Animal Abuse
There are few things worse than animal abuse, but do you know how to spot when an animal is being abused or neglected? Exploring this topic can be uncomfortable, but the prevention of animal abuse is achieved only through discussion and awareness. When we all work together, we can help pets in need. There’s nothing better than that!
A Serious Offense
Animal cruelty can take many forms, and the FBI takes each offense seriously as a crime against society. To that end, the Bureau tracks and investigates the following:
- Intentional mistreatment of an animal
- Animal torturing, tormenting, mutilation, beating, maiming, poisoning, or killing
- Abandonment of duty to provide species-specific food, fresh water, shelter, exercise, and wellness care
- Confining an animal likely to cause injury or death
- Organized fights involving animals
What to Do
Have you ever been out and about, minding your own business, when you come across an animal who looks malnourished and unwanted? Other people would keep walking, but something tugs at your conscience and won’t allow you to erase the image from your mind. Perhaps the animal in question is:
- Reclusive or skittish
- Hyper-aggressive
- Wearing a collar that appears rather tight around the neck
- Showing open wounds or scars
- Has matted fur, a patchy coat, or evidence of fleas and ticks
- Emaciated
- Caged up
- Tied up or attached to a chain
- In an area with high numbers of other animals
- Left alone all hours of the day and in all kinds of weather
- Left outside without proper shelter or any visible source of fresh water
Once you assess the scene and remain vigilant, what should your next steps be?
Widening the Scope
We recommend documenting your observations without drawing unwanted attention. Dates, times, conditions, and photos (if possible) should enter into your statement. Similarly, have friends or family members view the animal and draw their own conclusions. This could help corroborate your claim when you report the owner(s) for animal abuse.
Reporting Animal Abuse
Abusing animals is a crime punishable by law. It’s up to caring, responsible citizens to report owners who mistreat animals. Please do not hesitate to follow through with your claim to local and national experts and authorities.
You can always call the team at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital, and we will try to help. The City of San Antonio reviews and investigates cases of suspected animal abuse, and you can also complete a report with PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals).
Lastly, animal abuse has been connected to individuals who may be mentally unstable. Protect yourself and do not try to personally intervene.
A Better Life
We encourage you to become an advocate to prevent animal abuse and to promote the welfare of pets everywhere. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.