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.
A Long Road to Paradise
Three weeks after their rescue, 20 neglected and abused horses from West Virginia enjoy a new start on a Maryland farm.
Learn MoreNews & Events
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July 29, 2010
New Evidence Shows Animal Torture Videos Remain Available Online
New information shows that videos depicting extreme animal cruelty remain available online. The HSUS and HSLF, along with members of Congress, urge the Senate to quickly pass legislation to ban interstate and foreign commerce in these obscene animal “crush” videos.
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July 28, 2010
The HSUS Offers Reward in Wash. Horse Neglect and Abandonment 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 the neglect and abandonment of two malnourished horses near North Bend, Wash.
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July 27, 2010
The HSUS Assists Monroe County Humane Association with Rescue
The HSUS, the Monroe County Humane Association, Indiana State Police and the Greene County Health Department are working together to rescue more than 70 dogs in Greene County.
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July 22, 2010
The HSUS Offers Reward in Case of Calif. Horse Cruelty, Abandonment
The HSUS is offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the those responsible for dumping an emaciated 20-year old horse in the street in Los Angeles.
Our Victories
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July 28, 2010
HSI Hails Historic Vote to Ban Bullfighting in Catalonia
HSI hails the historic decision by the Catalan Parliament to ban bullfighting and congratulates the parliament for responding to citizens’ calls to put an end to this outdated tradition in their region.
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June 30, 2010
Landmark Ohio Animal Welfare Agreement Reached Among HSUS, Ohioans for Humane Farms, Gov. Strickland, and Leading Livestock Organizations
A deal struck among The HSUS, Ohioans for Humane Farms, Ohio agriculture leaders and Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland will lead to major animal welfare improvements in Ohio on a raft of issues.
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May 17, 2010
The HSUS Praises Minn. Lawmakers for Combating Animal Fighting, Protecting Pets and American Horses
The HSUS applauds Minnesota for enacting bills to protect animals in domestic disputes and to criminalize drugs and implements used in animal fighting.
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April 30, 2010
Ariz. Legislators Unanimously Pass Bill to Protect Human and Animal Survivors of Domestic Violence
The HSUS thanks Arizona legislators for passing a bill that includes protections for human and animal survivors of domestic violence.