Animal cruelty can be either deliberate abuse or simply the failure to take care of an animal. Either way, and whether the animal is a pet, a farm animal, or wildlife, the victim can suffer terribly. Don’t despair, though—anyone can take steps against cruelty.
People with emotional problems may beat, shoot, or stab animals or set them on fire. Those who abuse animals are very likely to be violent to other people—even their own family—too.
Neglect is not giving an animal the right food, water, shelter or vet care. Because their misery goes on for so long, animals who die of neglect can suffer just as much as animals who are harmed on purpose.
All U.S. states have animal cruelty laws, and 47 states treat some forms of abuse as felonies. Farmers and researchers can do cruel things to animals that other people can't do legally, but all states have some protection for pets like dogs and cats.
Hope for Suffering Animals
While there is life, there is hope. Here's what you can do about cruelty to animals.
Learn MoreNews & Events
-
December 30, 2009
The HSUS Offers Reward in Kentucky Cruelty Case
The HSUS is offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for burning a dog with bacon grease in Pikeville, Ky.
-
December 23, 2009
Injured Dog and Puppies Suffered in The Cold
A case of animal neglect in Idaho shows the need for new attitudes and new laws.
-
December 22, 2009
The HSUS Urges Stronger Enforcement of Colorado Sled Dog Regulations
The HSUS commends the Park County Sheriff’s Office for seizing nearly 100 sled dogs from a dog-sledding facility due to the animals’ alleged neglect.
-
December 17, 2009
The HSUS Offers Reward in Oklahoma Dog Dismemberment Case
The HSUS is offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for killing and dismembering a dog in Oklahoma City.
Our Victories
-
December 16, 2009
The HSUS Recognizes Top 12 State Legislative Achievements in Animal Protection
The HSUS celebrates the top 12 state legislative achievements in animal protection in 2009.
-
July 2, 2009
The HSUS Celebrates Oregon Legislative Victories for Animals
The HSUS applauds the Oregon state legislature for passing four significant animal protection bills during the recently concluded session.
-
June 18, 2009
The HSUS Applauds Fla. Turtle Trade Ban
The Humane Society of the United States commends the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for unanimously passing a rule banning the commercial trapping and sale of freshwater turtles in Florida.
-
June 4, 2009
Conn. Lawmakers Pass Bill to Ban Chimpanzees as Pets and Prevent Internet Hunting
After a tragic incident involving a pet chimpazee, Connecticut lawmakers vote to prohibit residents from keeping great apes as pets.