Report instances of animal abuse or neglect to the ASPCA or local police.
Periodically, you may observe a case of animal cruelty by pet owners or others. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, animal cruelty occurs when someone "intentionally injures or harms an animal or when a person willfully deprives an animal of food, water or necessary medical care." Signs of abuse and neglect can include wounds, tick or flea infestations, extreme thin body, limping, or an owner striking or otherwise hurting an animal. Although ASPCA agents have jurisdiction in New York and New Jersey, those living in other states should file complaints with local police departments.
Instructions
1. Prepare a written, factual statement of the abuse you witnessed, including dates and times. Include photos of the abuse location, the animal and the surrounding area. However, be careful. You are not allowed to enter private property without permission. Also, animals on the property may be frightened or in pain. Gather information from witnesses. Make copies of all documents.
2. File a phone complaint if you are a New York City resident. Contact the ASPCA's Human Law Enforcement Department at 212-876-7700, extension 4450. Be prepared to give the responding officer your information, a description of what you saw and the location of the alleged abuse.
3. File an online complaint if you live in New Jersey (see Resources). File the complaint with the New Jersey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Be prepared to convey your contact information, the names of anyone involved and a description of the abuse you saw. An NJSPCA officer will respond to your complaint. You have the option of remaining anonymous by noting this request in the message box on the website.
4. Call your local police department if you live outside New York or New Jersey, as recommended by the ASPCA. Be prepared to convey information about the abuse you observed, along with your contact information and that of any witnesses.
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