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Animal cruelty
Animal neglect
Neglect is the most common form of animal cruelty. It happens when an animal is not given the things it needs to be healthy — food, water, shelter, a clean environment and veterinary care.
About animal neglect
Neglect can be deliberate or the result of someone being unable to cope. Either way, it causes real suffering and is an offence.
Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, anyone responsible for an animal has a legal duty to meet its needs.
Signs to look for
- A visibly thin or underweight animal, or one with no access to clean water or food
- No suitable shelter from heat, cold or wet
- Untreated injuries, illness, overgrown nails or matted, parasite-ridden coats
- Animals living in dirty, cramped or hazardous conditions
The law
The Animal Welfare Act 2006 places a duty of care on owners and keepers to meet an animal's needs: a suitable diet, a suitable environment, the ability to behave normally, appropriate company, and protection from pain, suffering, injury and disease.
Causing unnecessary suffering, or failing to meet these needs, is an offence that can lead to prosecution and a ban on keeping animals.
How to report animal neglect
If you've witnessed animal neglect, please report it to us. Give as much detail as you can safely gather — what you saw, exactly where and when, descriptions of any people, animals or vehicles involved, and any photos or video. Do not put yourself at risk or confront anyone.
If an animal is in immediate danger, or a crime is in progress, call 999.