Reporting Animal Abuse

Speaking out for animals means you become the voice for the animal. You notify (and maybe kindly pester) authorities that they don't have enough food, or inappropriate shelter, or they hurt, or they're cold.

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Step 1: Call Your Local Police or 911

• Law enforcement makes the first visit. They have authority to step foot on private property.

• Provide as many details as possible, including:

  • Address where the suspected animal abuse is occurring.

  • Detail what you've seen. Why do you suspect animal cruelty?

  • How often you've observed these incidents.

  • Urgency of the situation - the extent of suffering

• Ask police dispatch for a call back to update you on the status of this complaint. (This is a common request.)

• After their initial investigation, if they believe it is warranted, they will contact and partner with an animal investigator.​

• Please follow up. People are busy. It's easy for reports to fall through the cracks. Meanwhile the animal suffers. 

 

Step 2: Call an Animal Investigator

Police and animal investigators work as a team.

• Someone needs to file a report with an animal investigator. You can help Law Enforcement by calling the animal investigator and putting them in touch with the police and vice versa. Make your plea with the investigator strong and urgent.
   

NH has 3 different animal investigator teams (pick 1):

• Your Local SPCA (unless the SPCA investigator does not cover your town)

• Department of Agriculture 603-271-2404

• NH State SPCA Animal Investigator 603-772-2921 x 111

 

Follow Up is Critical for a Fast / Strong Response

A initial police report is just the beginning. We've spoken to many who call and leave a voicemail for the SPCA and nothing happens. They're busy. We get it.
Your persistence is crucial.
 

• Animals can't dial phones, text, speak or send an email. They are relying on compassionate individuals like you to speak up for them and advocate for their welfare.

• Sometimes when you follow up people will be annoyed or exasperated. They're busy. We all are. But that doesn't change your mission. And it doesn't take away the animal's pain. 

• Be kind to the police and the animal investigator. They have touch jobs.

 

Please be persistent. Animals in pain are counting on your voice.