Cruelty Prevention Program

cruelty The Humane Society of Greater Dayton is committed to making our community a place where all animals are valued. This means keeping them safe from abuse, neglect and other harmful situations.

We offer the area's only state-trained humane agent whose primary role is to ensure the safe and caring treatment of all animals. But, we cannot do it alone. It is through the help of concerned citizens that we learn of dangerous situations and can work to change them.

Signs of Cruelty, Neglect and Abuse

What constitutes neglect or abuse This can vary greatly, depending on the person asked; however, failure to provide adequate food, water and shelter is neglect. The use of physical force sufficient enough to cause injury to an animal is abuse. And neglect or abuse constitutes cruelty to animals, which is illegal in Ohio.

What Can One Person Do?

One person can make a huge difference in the life of a neglected or abused animal. Suspicion of cruelty is enough to report it to the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. Here are some questions to ask if you're considering calling in a report:

  • Is the animal not being fed or given water?
  • Does the animal have appropriate shelter from the elements and is shade available in hot summer months?
  • Does the shelter for the animal provide it adequate room to move?
  • Is the animal's coat dull, with hair missing? Are its eyes dull, and does the animal appear listless, with no energy?

However hard it may be to see an animal in these conditions, it is important to leave the environment as is so that a complete investigation may be conducted. And, never put yourself at risk. Any attempt to remove the animal yourself can cause you and the animal harm. It is always best to work with the Humane Society to improve the situation.

How To File a Report

When making a report, collect as much information as you can, including:

  • A description of any abuse you may have witnessed, including the address, date and time, as well as the name of the abuser, if known
  • Your name and phone number, so that you can be contacted by the investigator. Your information will always remain confidential
  • Any other information you see as helpful

Once you've collected all the information, contact the Humane Society at 937/262-8091 from 11:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. or 937/268-PETS at any time or fill out this online cruelty report.

How You Can Help

Your concern and action are extremely important in our work to end cruelty to animals. Laws governing animal cruelty are few and vague. Please make the time to write to your legislators to voice your concerns.