In our world, which is increasingly convinced that it is on the right path towards progress, there are still (unfortunately) retrograde and violent practices. The animal abuseis part of it.
Since the poor victims cannot denounce the perpetrators, it’s up to us to extend a paw to put an end to their pain. But how to do it? In this article, we give you some advice on how to report and how to behave if you witness the treatment of an animal.
What does the animal abuse law say?
The abuse of animals in our country is recognized as a crime in the penal code. According to article 544-ter, the crime of ill-treatment is referred to in two cases, which we summarize below:
- Anyone who unnecessarily or out of cruelty injures, abuses or subjects an animal to unbearable work is punished with imprisonment from 3 to 18 months or a fine from 5,000 to 30,000 euros.
- Any individual who administers substances to the animal which cause damage to its health. The penalty is the same.
The law specifies that in the event that one of these behaviors causes the death of the animal, the penalty will be increased.
What reports of animal abuse are punished?
To exemplify what has been said, here is a list of the punished acts. The law punishes those who:
- injures the animal;
- subjects him to efforts that are inappropriate to his physical characteristics;
- he tortures him;
- administers drugs or substances not suited to its nature;
- puts the physical integrity of the animal at risk (for example, organizes fights or unauthorized competitions);
- abandon pets, now accustomed to captivity;
- it makes them live in conditions unsuited to their nature or in neglect.
Abused animals: who to call?
In the light of what has been said, therefore, if you are aware of such a crime, who should you contact? If you witness the abuse of an animal, you can contact various actors, from associations to law enforcement agencies, to report this behavior. Let’s see in detail.
File a complaint
File a complaint for animal abuse is not complicated and can be done by both an association and a private citizen.
The complaint can be made to:
- Carabinieri;
- State Police;
- Forest Rangers;
- zoophilic guards;
- Finance watch.
It is possible to file a complaint in person, therefore by going to the police station closest to the scene of the crime or, if prompt intervention is needed, by telephone.
The role of associations
Beyond the official police bodies, in the event of ill-treatment it is also possible to contact associations anchored in the territory. This type of approach can be useful in the case of long-term ill-treatment (for example multiple specimens of animals living in degraded situations).
A local association can be a valid ally for anyone who wants to be accompanied in the complaint process.
In this case, it is possible to contact the Enpa (National Animal Protection Body) via email and the national body will be able to direct you to the territorial one closest to you.
Same speech for l’A.I.D.A.A (Italian Association for the Defense of Animals & the Environment) who will be able to direct you to the association closest to you.
Since 2010, the AIDAA has made available a telephone number for reporting animal abuse via text message:
+39 3487611439
Helpful tips on how to report animal abuse
Now that we have seen what the law says and which are the competent bodies to contact if you witness abuse of one or more animals, let’s see together some practical advice on how to behave before reporting.
Gather evidence
Of course, if you witness an act of abuse at the very moment in which the abuse is taking place, it is important to call the competent bodies as quickly as possible. However, if it is a situation that takes place over a longer period of time, you must be prepared to show evidence of what is happening.
Nowadays, with smartphones always at hand, taking photos or videos will not be so complicated. The more evidence you have collected (photos, videos, testimonials…), the higher the probability of being taken seriously as witnesses of animal abuse and of helping the police in the event of an investigation.
If possible, avoid filing a complaint yourself. With the help of an association that will act as a civil party in a possible trial against people accused of animal abuse, the complaint will have much more weight.
What (not) to do
Avoid buying an animal bred and sold by illegal networks because you think you are saving a poor, abused animal, but in reality you are encouraging the illegal trafficking of puppies.
If you spot an animal locked up in a car in direct sunlight (in winter, but especially in summer) notify the authorities immediately. Do not attempt to free the animal yourself unless it is an extreme emergency, in which case be sure to have a witness to certify that you acted to save the animal’s life and not to break into the vehicle.