If you observe an animal being abused, you are need to report it to the Animal Control department of your local police department and the Humane Society.

The Pet Assistance League is not legally able to assist with animal abuse interventions, and has no relationship with police enforcement actions.

As an organization operating under Virginia law, We are not allowed to take in strays unless it is past the 10 day hold period required after notification has been give to shelters, posters and other attempts at contacting pet owners such as scanning for an embedded ID tag have been attempted.

If you see instances of abuse or neglect, you must call both the Animal Control divisions of your local police department as well as the closest Humane Society in your area. You can also visit the Humane Society of the United State's web site at Humane Society of the United States. Humane societies are usually legally empowered to investigate abuse/neglect. Other suggestions to help document any problems & make a case for abuse/neglect stick are to take pictures or videotape abuse if you see it. Solicit testimony from other neighbors who have seen the problems.

Abuse is usually clear cut - you see someone kicking a dog. Neglect comes in many forms but is just as cruel & deadly. The link between cruelty to animals & cruelty to humans later in life has been well documented. You can help stop the violence by picking up the phone and making a few phone calls.

Remember though to make sure that you have your facts straight before you call to report a problem. And remember too, not to take the situation into your own hands.