Animal Cruelty

 

SEAACA is dedicated to ensuring animals in the 14 cities we serve are treated in a humane and caring manner. Our professional staff of Animal Control Officers enforces a variety of state and local laws and ordinances regarding animal care and ownership. One of the most important components of our enforcement responsibilities involves Animal Cruelty.

Animal Cruelty (Intentional) or Animal Abuse (Neglect) is defined in two parts, by an intentional act of violence towards an animal(s) or by animal neglect, causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Intentional cruelty, or abuse, is knowingly depriving an animal of food, water, shelter or veterinary care or maliciously torturing, maiming, mutilating, or killing an animal. Both types of acts can be a misdemeanor or felony. SEAACA Animal Control Officers respond to complaints of Animal Cruelty or Animal Abuse and conducts a thorough investigation while on scene.

SEAACA Animal Control Officers also provides educational information to the animal owners about proper care and attention for animals. Most cases can be resolved through education, if it is unintentional neglect. SEAACA Animal Control Officers have the right to remove an animal(s) from the property of the owner/caretaker if exigent circumstances permit such action. If an Animal Cruelty or Animal Abuse complaint is established, a thorough investigation is conducted and concluded. The case will then be forwarded to the City Prosecutor or District Attorney's Office for final review and consideration of criminal prosecution under the full extent of the law, including, but not limited to paying a fine or imprisonment and/ or both. 

Animal Cruelty or Animal Abuse does not include barking dogs, loose cats or dogs. If you have a problem with a barking dog, contact SEAACA during normal hours of operation. If you see a sick or injured animal, and/or a vicious animal, contact SEAACA immediately at (562) 803-3301.

 If you suspect Animal Cruelty or Animal Abuse, please contact SEAACA at (562) 803-3301. Anonymous reports are accepted and a SEAACA Animal Control Officer will be sent to investigate the complaint. For additional information, questions or concerns, please contact the Field Service Department at 562-803-3301.

IF YOU SUSPECT IT, REPORT IT!