The SPCA’s Humane
Investigations Department receives and responds to over 1,000 cases of
reported animal neglect and cruelty each year. SPCA Humane Officers
are trained and sworn to exercise the powers of a peace officer to
prevent acts of neglect and cruelty to animals by enforcing all
State laws and applicable local ordinances.
SPCA Humane Officers are
responsible for investigating, preparing cases for prosecution and
educating the public regarding animal cruelty and neglect and how to
properly care for all animals. SPCA Humane Officers get their powers
from the California Corporations Code 14502, and can exercise the
powers of a peace officer while investigating any crimes involving
animals.
Most
cruelty investigated by Humane Officers is unintentional neglect
that can be resolved through education.
Each day, SPCA Humane
Officers receive reports and investigate cases of:
Animal poisoning
Malicious &
intentional maiming
Deprivation of food,
shelter or water
Cockfights
Organized dog fights
Permitting animals to
live without proper care and attention
Animal abandonment
Other violations of
State Humane Codes
If you have concerns
about an animal that is being neglected or cruelly treated, call our
Humane Investigations Department at (831) 373-2631, or 422-4721 ext. 213
or click the link below to submit your report online. All
reports are confidential.
Animal Cruelty
Report Form Use our online
complaint form to report a case of animal cruelty or neglect. All
reports are confidential.
What are the California Animal Laws?
If you are
not sure what is legal and what is illegal when it comes to the
treatment of animals, please check this list. Keep in mind that
our Humane Investigators spend many hours educating the public in cases
of unintentional neglect and improper care of animals.
Animal cruelty does not
include barking dogs, disruptive cats or loose animals. If you have a
problem with a loud animal call your local police agency. If you see a
loose animal, a vicious animal, or an injured domestic animal on the side of the
road call your local animal control.
Click here for a
list of local Animal Control Offices.
If you see injured wildlife or are unable to reach Animal Control for an
injured domestic animal, please contact The SPCA at 831-373-2631 or
422-4721 or after hours at 831-646-5534.
“Annie” was found abandoned in a home with 37 other dogs and cats.
This case was successfully investigated by The SPCA for Monterey
County. The SPCA was able to place “Annie” in a wonderful new home
where she is cherished and loved.
"Piper" was rescued by SPCA investigators
after a week in an underground storm drain - read about her story here!
"Rudy" was rescued by SPCA
Humane Officers
after suffering severe neglect and emaciation.
He is now adopted into a new, loving home.
