Be a watchdog for animal cruelty

Animal neglect and cruelty is a horrible fact of life, and with the growing economic troubles, sadly we can expect to see more of it. The lucky pets end up surrendered to a local animal shelter and find loving new homes. The unlucky ones are left chained up, underfed, or set loose to fend for themselves.

There are different forms of neglect and cruelty, and of course when animals are beaten or used in animal fighting it's easy to spot. But the lack of adequate food, water and shelter are also neglect and need to be reported. First I've listed the signs of neglect, and following that I have included information on how to go about reporting a cruelty case.

Signs of neglect and cruelty:
* flea or tick infestation
* wounds on the body
* patches of hair missing
* the animal is extremely thin or starving
* limping
* the owner strikes or physically abuses the animal
* dog repeatedly left alone without food and water, often chained in a yard
* dog or cat that has been hit by a car or shows signs listed above and hasn't been seen by a veterinarian
* dog or cat kept outside without shelter in extreme weather conditions.
* animals who cower in fear or act aggressively when owner approaches

How to report neglect and cruelty:
* Keep track of dates and approximate times you witnessed the neglect or cruelty.
* Take pictures if possible, and date the pictures
* Get signed statements from any witnesses
* Compile a concise written statement of your observations.
* Find out who is responsible in your town, county or state for enforcing anti-cruelty codes; they typically work for your local humane organization, animal control agency, taxpayer-funded animal shelter or police precinct.
* Keep a copy of your statement and any documentation you give this individual, and write down their name, the date and outcome of your discussion. Make it clear you are very interested in pursuing the case and willing to assist in any way you can.
* Follow up if there's no response in a reasonable amount of time by presenting your information to that person's supervisor, or if necessary to local government officials such as your county commissioner.
* If you witness the cruelty yourself, you can go to the local police and ask to swear out a warrant to summon the accused person to court. An expert witness statement here is very helpful, such as from a veterinarian. The veterinarian can sign a statement such as "In my expert opinion, a dog suffers when hit with a chain, deprived of food, etc." Such a statement can make all the difference in a case.

Visit the ASPCA website's Report Animal Cruelty for more detailed information on the subject of animal cruelty and neglect.