What to do when you see animal cruelty, neglect, or mistreatment:
1. Gather as much information as you can about the situation. Take down addresses, names, license plate numbers...any information that would help law enforcement to find individuals involved. Often times it may take law enforcement a long time to get to the location of the complaint. The more information you can get about an incident, the easier it is for law enforcement to investigate. It is ideal to take pictures or video of the situation. It is important, however, to make sure that you do not enter private property to obtain these photos or other information.
2. Call local law enforcement. Make sure that you are specific in your complaint when you call. Give times, dates, and details of the conditions you have observed. Some areas have animal control numbers to call. Check the list to the right to see if you are in an area with a specific animal control number. If you do not have animal control in your area, call the local police department to lodge your complaint. If you need assistance, call or e-mail Furry Friends Refuge.
3. Follow up with the condition of the animal. Many times law enforcement may be unable to act on the first instance they observe. However, if conditions that continue to be substandard may eventually rise to the level of a violation of the law.
4. Familiarize yourself with applicable animal cruelty laws. Most animal cruelty laws are created by the state government. Review Iowa's animal cruelty laws to the right.
