April is Prevention of Animal Cruelty month. Sadly, animal
cruelty is still prevalent in the United States. Only 33 states and the
District of Columbia have laws making animal cruelty a felony. Animals can’t
speak up for themselves so it’s our responsibility to come forward when we
suspect abuse. Animal cruelty can manifest itself in many ways. It is important to know what constitutes as
animal cruelty. Neglect is the
failure to provide for an animal’s basic needs (i.e. food, shelter, water and
veterinary care). Intentional cruelty
is purposely inflicting physical harm or injury on an animal.
Keep an eye out for animals in need of help and get to know
the animals in your neighborhood. If you notice an animal losing a significant
amount of weight, missing fur or the presence of burns, cuts or parasites the
animal may be the victim of abuse. If you see an animal chained up outside for
long periods of time or kept in in an enclosure that is too small or unsanitary,
you should report the situation to Animal Control. In Montgomery County, a
tethered animal must be on a harness and cannot be left outside for more than 2
hours at a time between the hours of 8am and 8pm. The tether should be at least
5 times the length of the animal and weigh no more than 1/8 of the animal’s
weight.
If you suspect an animal is being abused it is important
that you gather as much information as possible before contacting animal
control authorities and if you can, take a picture of the animal. Montgomery
County residents should report animal abuse to
Animal Control.
Hopefully, none of us will witness animal cruelty in our
neighborhoods but there are actions we can take in our personal lives to reduce
violence against animals:
- Teach children to respect and be kind towards
animals.
- Make responsible choices regarding the products
we buy, eat and wear.
- Adopt a shelter pet. Puppy mills and backyard
breeds are some of the worst offenders when it comes to animal cruelty.
- Contact and become active in your area’s local
SPCA, humane society or animal advocacy group.
Remember your vigilance may be what saves an animal from a life of abuse and neglect.
