How to Help Prevent Animal Abuse/Cruelty
It’s up to each of us to help prevent abuse/cruelty to animals. According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), an animal in the United States is abused or beaten every ten seconds. However, animal abuse/cruelty does not always have physical indicators. Sometimes it can be difficult to tell if an animal is not being treated well or is being taken care of properly by their owner. That is why it is crucial that we take the time to understand the various forms of abuse/cruelty, the signs to be on the lookout for and how to prevent it.
Possible Signs of Animal Abuse/Cruelty
Lack of adequate shelter:
An animal that’s regularly left outside can quickly perish in the Arizona heat. Access to clean, fresh water and shelter from the sun is important, especially during the summer months. Better yet, animals should be kept indoors where it’s cooler.
Untreated medical or skin conditions:
If an animal is losing hair or has open sores, they need to receive medical treatment. Withholding treatment for common ailments or diseases like diabetes or thyroid issues is also a form of animal abuse/cruelty.
Extended crating:
Pets need regular exercise, attention, and socialization, not to mention potty breaks. If these can’t or won’t be provided by the pet owner, they shouldn’t own a pet.
Negligent abuse/cruelty:
Negligent abuse/cruelty can include leaving an animal alone in a locked car during the summer months. Owners should never do this to their pets – not even for “just a few minutes”. Temperatures within the vehicle will quickly soar to life-threatening levels.
How to Help Prevent Animal Abuse/Cruelty
If you suspect or witness an act of animal abuse/cruelty, don’t look away – ACT! You need to call the local police, the Humane Society or another animal welfare organization. You can make a complaint (anonymously if necessary) so that animals in jeopardy are rescued and receive the care they need. If you’re concerned about the immediate health or safety of the animal, be sure to alert the officer that it’s an emergency situation. Be sure to keep a record of the incident(s), the date of your complaint, the organization you contacted and the name of the person you talked with as well as their response to the situation you’ve described. It may be helpful if authorities decide to prosecute the suspected abuser. Remember, we need to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves. For more information on whom to call when reporting animal abuse here in Phoenix, visit https://www.azhumane.org/report-animal-abuse/.