Reporting Cruelty & Neglect
Reporting animal cruelty in Rhode Island
We need your help to keep the animals in our communities safe. If you suspect an animal is being abused or neglected, please contact your local Animal Control or the Rhode Island Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ (RISPCA) Humane Law Enforcement Department at 401-438-8150 ext. 3 or email cruelty@rispca.com. Your actions may not only help the animal, but also identify a person in need of help. Intervention can prevent escalation of abuse.
When reporting the proper evidence and witnesses are required to successfully build a case for seizure and/or prosecution. The following information should be provided to investigators:
- Name, exact address, and contact information of the animals’ owner, if known
- Brief but specific account of the facts and circumstances involved
- Your name and a phone number that they can follow up with you to get more specific details
Signs of animal abuse and neglect
As a rule, failure to provide adequate food, water, and shelter or the use of physical force sufficient to leave a mark or otherwise cause injury constitutes cruelty to animals according to most state laws.
What to look for:
- Lack of grooming, for example overgrown nails or matted fur
- Basic needs not met, such as lack of food, water, shelter, and vet care
- Bruises and scarring on skin or visible signs of poor health
- Being kept in unsanitary conditions or extreme temperatures
- Malnourished or dehydrated appearance where bones are visible through fur