Speaking For Those Who Cannot

What to Do If You Witness Abuse or Neglect

A parakeet set on fire, the object of a cruel teen prank, caught on videotape.

A hamster put in the microwave by two teenage girls who just wanted to see what would happen. He would later chew three of his feet off, unable to take the pain of his burns.

A rabbit, no longer wanted, left to fend for herself in a city park.

Every day pets across the United States are neglected, abused, and abandoned by those who are supposed to care for them. Small animals like hamsters, rabbits, and guinea pigs are particularly vulnerable. They cannot cry out for help themselves. They cannot save themselves from those who hurt them. It is up to those who witness the abuse and the neglect firsthand to stand up and save them: We are the only voices of the abused and the neglected.

Photo courtesy of Sue R B

But, how do you know when an animal is being neglected or abused? It’s not always as obvious as the hamster put in a microwave and the parakeet set on fire. There are, however, telltale signs that an animal is likely being neglected or abused:

1.    Have you seen the pet being abused or hit?
2.    Does the pet have fresh food and water? If she does not have one, either or both, it’s time to step in and take action.
3.    Are there cuts, sores, or bruises on the pet? For example, does the rabbit or ferret have sores on the bottom of her foot?
4.    Is the pet housed in a cage that is much too small for her?
5.    Is the pet too skinny? Can you see her ribs?
6.    Is the pet visibly injured?
7.    Does the pet have patches of fur missing?

Write down everything you can about the abuse that you’ve witnessed, including:

•    How the pet has been abused or neglected (i.e. a rabbit stuck in an outdoor hutch that is so small she can’t turn around)
•    The names (if you know them) of those who are responsible for the abuse or neglect
•    When (the date or dates) you witnessed the abuse or neglect
•    The address or location where you witnessed the abuse or neglect

If you have witnessed or suspect a pet is being abused or neglected, it’s important to take action. All you have to do is call your local animal shelter, the local SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), or the Humane Society. Jotting down the above information will make it easier when you call for help.

However, if the situation is so severe that there is no time to jot the notes down, just call the SPCA, Humane Society, or your local animal shelter as quickly as possible. No one will ever have to know you reported the abuse or neglect: You can remain anonymous if you choose, but you may want to ask that your name remain confidential. That way, the investigating organization can contact you to let you know what action has been taken and to update you on the case.

“The basis of all animal rights should be the Golden Rule: we should treat them as we would wish them to treat us, were any other species in our dominant position.”
Christine Stevens