April is National Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month

Even though it is very important that we all work together to prevent cruelty against animals all year long, April is a special month because it is the official Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month. Every year, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) asks animal supporters to celebrate this month by helping to raise awareness of the crucial issues regarding the abuse of animals. One of the most important things we can do to combat cruelty to animals is to know the signs of abuse and what to do if we suspect someone is abusing an animal.

What to Look For

Just because an animal displays aggressive, timid or fearful behaviors, doesn’t mean an animal is being abused. You can’t tell based on its behavior alone if he or she is being mistreated. Examine the animal and the environment to determine or not if the animal needs help.

Here are some signs that an animal may be treated cruelly.

• Significant flea or tick infestation
• Wounds on the body, including a collar that is too tight or embedded in the animal’s neck
• Untreated skin conditions that have caused patches of missing fur, bumps, rashes or scaly skin
• Extremely thin, starving animals
• Signs of neglectful grooming such as seriously overgrown nails, matted fur and dirty coat
• Limping, weakness or inability to stand
• A person striking or otherwise physically abusing an animal
• Heavy discharge from eyes or nose
• Animal is tied up without adequate food or water, unsanitary conditions
• Animal is left outside without shelter in extreme weather conditions
• Animals are housed in kennels or cages that are too small for them to stand, turn around and move normally
• Animal cowers in fear when owner approaches them

How to Report Animal Cruelty

What to do if you suspect an animal is being abused.

• Speak up. Report animal cruelty to the Humane Society of Pike’s Peak Region Animal Law Enforcement. The number to call in Colorado Springs is 719-473-1741.
• Document the details. Note as many details as you can, such as the location, date, time and descriptions of people and animals involved. Video and photographic documentation is very helpful, even if they are taken with a mobile phone. Try to get names and phone numbers of everyone involved and stay on the scene until authorities arrive if it is safe for you to do so.
• Prepare to testify. While you can report animal cruelty anonymously, the case will be much stronger if you testify.

Remember, if you see an animal in distress, don’t assume that someone else will take care of the situation. Animals are not able to speak up for themselves, so we have to do it for them.

Learn more about preventing animal cruelty on the ASPCA website.