Abuse / Cruelty Investigation

Physical Signs

• Collar so tight it has caused a neck wound
• Open wounds, signs of multiple healed wounds
• Untreated skin conditions that have caused loss of hair, loss of skin, bumps, or rashes
• Extreme thinness or emaciation (bones may be visible)
• Fur infested with fleas, ticks, or other parasites
• Patches of bumpy, scaly skin
• Signs of inadequate grooming, such as extreme matting of fur, overgrown nails, and dirty coat
• Weakness, limping, or inability to stand or walk normally
• Heavy discharge from eyes or nose
• An owner striking or otherwise physically abusing an animal
• Visible signs of confusion or extreme drowsiness

• Pets tied up alone outside for long periods of time without adequate food or water, or with food or water that is unsanitary.
• Pets kept outside in inclement weather without access to adequate shelter.
• Animals kept in an area littered with feces, garbage, broken glass, or other objects that could harm them.
• Animals housed in kennels or cages (often crowded in with other animals) that are too small to allow them to stand, turn around, and make normal movements.