10 Things To Do If You Witness Animal Cruelty.
One of the reasons that make us human beings ‘human’ is the fact that we are more evolved than the rest of the living beings around us and that we can be humane and compassionate towards others, especially to the animals that cannot express themselves and more than most of the times are absolutely harmless to us. And yet, some people constantly prove us wrong by being cruel towards animals. It can be upsetting and heartbreaking to see an animal being neglected or hurt right in front of us. What hurts, even more, is not knowing what to do in situations like these to help the animal. Animal cruelty was neglected and went unpunished for the longest time but things are just beginning to change in recent times as they should.
If you witness any act of cruelty towards animals, it is your moral responsibility to help the animal and report the crime to the authorities. We understand the importance of not only being educated but also prepared for these kinds of situations. Everyone should know the answer to the question, ‘How should you get help for an animal that has been abused or neglected?’. Here are 10 things to do if you witness animal cruelty.
1. Try to avoid panicking and get some medical help
Assuming that someone else will help is the biggest mistake. An abused or neglected animal maybe in a dire need of medical attention, without which, their injuries could prove fatal for them. Make sure you get them the needed help as soon as possible.
2. Do not be afraid to speak up.
If you see an abused or neglected animal, befriend and speak to their guardians or companions and try and talk to them about their behavior towards the animal. They may be unaware of the fact that they are mistreating the animal. Explain to them why it is unfair to oppress the animal.
3. Educate yourself about the law
In the past, animal abuse went unnoticed because laws against animal abuse weren’t so strict and people were often not aware of the laws against animal abuse. Thankfully, the laws have now become stricter and familiarizing yourself with the laws always helps.
4. Gather evidence
Whenever you witness abuse happening, make sure you click a picture or a video. Collect important information like the visual of the abuser, license plate number and witnesses. This may act as proof against the abuser.
5. File and case (FIR) against the abuser with the police
Animal abuse is a very serious crime. If you ever witness an animal being abused, report the crime to the police. An FIR sets things into motion and compels the police to investigate the incident. If the police fail to register an FIR, a private complaint can be registered in the court.
6. Notify the appropriate authorities
Apart from informing the law enforcement, make sure you also inform various other authorities that are in charge of the locality and animal welfare like the ministry of tourism of the area, forest officers, etc.
7. Get in touch with animal support groups
Various animal support groups exist everywhere throughout the country and are very helpful against animal abuse. They help in taking care of the animals and their rehabilitation.
8. Be persistent
Abusers need to understand that they are at fault and will not be allowed to get away with their crimes. Follow up with the police and seek legal counsel if required. Many lawyers and organizations are willing to help in these situations pro-bono.
9. Prepare to testify in the court of law
While you may choose to remain anonymous, any legal case will be much stronger if you are willing to come forward and testify to the crime you witnessed.
10. Be thankful for all the help
Be vocal and thank the people that helped you while you helped an animal. This encourages and inspires them to do something by themselves and help more animals in the future.
Advocating for abused or neglected animals can be difficult and emotionally draining, but they depend on you to speak up for them. You can make a big difference in their lives and also prove that humans beings are actually capable of being humane.
