05/01/2021
📍What is animal abuse?
Abuse violations - torture, torment, mutilation, cruel beating and cruel killing - take many forms. Torment need not be physical in nature; an animal can be tormented by baiting or teasing, or a pattern of intimidation by yelling or threatening physical harm.
Serious physical abuse, if not witnessed, may be hard to detect because the physical evidence, such as bruising and abrasions, may be hidden by hair. Visible evidence of physical abuse includes limping, swelling, bloody urine and broken teeth. Hand shyness, timidity, cowering and fear biting are behaviors symptomatic of abuse, particularly if the animal exhibits these behaviors in the presence of the abuser.
📍What to do if you suspect an animal is abused or neglected:
Get as much information as possible. Try to find out the condition of the animal, their living conditions and the address where the animal is kept. You can remain confidential, but it is important to leave your name and number in case the officer has trouble locating the animal or for follow-ups in the future.
Once a complaint has been lodged, an officer will investigate. If animal cruelty charges are filed, fines and/or jail time could be assigned, and the animal may be able to be rehomed into a loving family.
📍What basics must all pet owners provide?
~Shelter
~Food
~Water
~Veterinary Care
~Space, Sanitation, Air and Light
~Confinement
~Collars
~Grooming
