It’s one of the most challenging aspects of our work. And one that gives us a unique perspective. Every time we answer a call to investigate a potential case of cruelty or neglect, we never know what we’ll find. But we do know that whatever we find, every animal deserves nothing less than a heroic effort.
ANIMALS SEIZED
ANNUALLY
DAYS A YEAR WORKING
IN THE COMMUNITY
VISITS INVESTIGATING
ABUSE ANNUALLY
How do I know if an animal is being neglected, abandoned, or used for fighting? It is not always easy to know. In some instances, it could be abundantly clear, while in others you may only see signs over a period of time. Here are some warning signs that something could be amiss:
• Extremely thin, starving animals
• Wounds on the body
• Patches of missing hair or severely matted hair
• Dogs who are repeatedly left alone without food, water or shelter, often chained or locked up in a yard
• Animals that have been abandoned by their owner
• An owner striking, or otherwise physically abusing an animal
• Tick or flea infestations. Flystrike - open wounds on ears and/or nose caused by biting flies
• Animals with an injury or illness who have not received medical care
• Embedded collars/chains around the neck
• Intentionally fighting animals
IF YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT A DOMESTIC ANIMAL IN FRANKLIN COUNTY, PLEASE CALL
Our Cruelty Investigations Department makes 6,000 visits a year to investigate these reports 365 days a year. Columbus Humane is the lead law enforcement agency in Franklin County for investigating cases of animal cruelty, abuse and neglect as well as organized animal fighting. Reports are received from concerned citizens, social services, health departments and other law enforcement agencies. We maintain an over 90% conviction rate in the Franklin County Environmental Court.
WHAT DO I NEED TO FILE A REPORT?
Make sure you have the address of the incident you would like to report and as many details as possible. Pictures and video are helpful. Once you make a report online or by phone, one of our agents will follow-up with you if one is not available when you make your initial report. If the troubling behavior continues, please continue to file reports. We appreciate your patience as we work to enforce the law while also abiding by it.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I FIND A STRAY DOG?
Under state law, Franklin County Animal Care & Control enforces stray dogs or dogs running loose. Please call (614) 525-3400 to make a report.
