 "What
is animal cruelty?"
Animal cruelty encompasses a range of behaviors harmful to animals,
from neglect to malicious killing. Most cruelty investigated by
humane officers is unintentional neglect that can be resolved through
education. Intentional cruelty, or abuse, is knowingly depriving
an animal of food, water, shelter, or veterinary care or maliciously
torturing, maiming, mutilating, or killing an animal. Animal "hoarding"
is a situation that happens when someone has collected so many animals
that they are unable to provide proper care for them. In New Hampshire
there are numerous laws that protect the welfare of animals.
"How do I report cruelty?
If you witness an act of animal torture or abuse call your local
police immediately. If you know or suspect that an animal is being
neglected or abused, report your information by calling our investigative
agent at 603-772-2921 ext. 111. Any inquiries regarding suspected
neglect or abuse is welcome. Your calls are confidential and
our agent will require information to receive a valid report.
Important facts you should know
- All domestic animals must be provided food, water, shelter and
proper veterinary care.
- Abandonment, serious neglect, abuse, poisoning and torture are
all types of animal cruelty and can carry felony penalties in
some cases.
- Animals should not be left inside a vehicle for any amount of
time during very hot or very cold weather. An animal left in a
vehicle could be subject to extreme temperatures and die quickly.
- It is against the law to carry loose dogs in the back of pick-up
trucks.
In addition to investigating hundreds of reports of suspected animal
neglect or abuse every year, our investigator works with other humane
organizations to develop and strengthen legislation that protects
animals throughout the State of New Hampshire.
One of the greatest contributions you can make to your community
is to get people working together to stop any form of abuse or neglect.
You can make a difference by working with your local and state representatives
on legislation that improves the welfare of animals. Learn about
your local ordinances and what statewide bills are being considered,
and call or write on behalf of the animals. Together we can help
both the animals and citizens of our community.
Click here to learn
more about the legislation that is being worked on in New Hampshire.
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