How to Report Animal Abuse

Witnessing instances of animal cruelty, abuse, and neglect can cause a great deal of anguish. This is compounded when you aren't sure what to do. The following steps can help you to make sure that an animal in distress gets the help he needs as soon as possible.

1. If an animal is in imminent danger, call your local animal control facility or the police. It's important that you don't put yourself in harms way when you witness a violent act against an animal. As tempting as it is to alleviate an animal's suffering, it's more helpful to get the proper authorities involved to handle the situation.
   
   
2. Find out which organization or agency is responsible for investigating reports of animal abuse. If the animal isn't in immediate danger, take the time to find out who handles animal abuse cases. This differs from one location to the next. If you have an SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) in your area, that's a good place to start your research. Your municipal animal control facility can also be helpful with this.
   
   
3. Get the facts about the law. Unfortunately, not everyone has high standards of animal care. While you may feel sympathy for an animal who is left outside at all hours of the day and night, chances are that if he has adequate food, water, and shelter, the is no law being broken. Be sure that a law is actually being broken before filing a complaint. Staff members at your local humane society or animal control agency may be able to help you with this.
   
   
4. Keep careful records. As soon as you suspect an animal is in danger, start keeping a concise, written record of the abuse. Be sure to write down dates and times of any incidences you witness. You should also keep careful records of conversations with the suspected abuser, as well as anyone you speak to in reference to this matter. If possible, and if it won't compromise your safety, take pictures or video of the animal abuse.
   
   
5. Make your complaint. Once you're reasonably sure that an animal is being abused, contact your local humane law enforcement agency to report it. Be sure to mention any records you've kept.