Reporting Animal Abuse

If you suspect cruelty to an animal, you should contact your local law enforcement agency at (806) 296-1182. 

As a witness, you will need to be able to provide information about the situation, such as the following:

      • What is happening - Include a description of the incident. This may include information about an animal’s physical condition and/or an act that was committed against the animal.

    • Who is committing the offense - Include the name and description of the person, as well as a description of their vehicle           (if  applicable) with a license plate number.

     • Where the incident is occurring - Include the specific location, address, and cross streets.

     • When the incident occurred - Include the date and time of incident.

The more detailed you can be in your description the more evidence animal management will have to pursue your report. 

If others have also witnessed a particular animal being abused or neglected, ask them to report the incident as well - more evidence supports your case. Animal management officers may not be available to respond immediately to a reported incident of animal abuse. 

Do not wait until an animal’s life is in danger - if you suspect abuse, document it and report it to the appropriate law enforcement agency.

Definition of Animal Cruelty

Animal cruelty is defined as the malicious or intentional maiming, mutilation, torture, or wounding of a living animal. Also, any person who overworks, tortures, torments, deprives the animal of necessary food, drink, or shelter; or cruelly beats, mutilates, or kills an animal is guilty of animal cruelty.

State Punishment for Animal Cruelty

Animal cruelty in Texas is a felony and punishable by a $10,000 fine and up to 2 years in jail. Those under the age of 18 years are also required to undergo counseling if convicted of animal cruelty.