How to spot animal abuse

Here are some pointers on problems to look for in various types of facilities, what laws apply, and who is responsible for inspecting each type of facility.

Zoos

• What to look for: Are the animals in good health? Can people get too close to the animals? What form of population control is used? What happens to surplus animals?
  
• Laws that apply: Animal Welfare Act; state anti-cruelty statutes.
  
• Who inspects: USDA/APHIS; local law enforcement.
  

Exhibitors and traveling animal shows

• What to look for: Physical condition; abnormal stereotypical behavior; unnecessary suffering; travel accommodations.
  
• Laws that apply: Animal Welfare Act; state anti-cruelty statutes; commercial laws; zoning regulations.
  
• Who inspects: USDA/APHIS; local law enforcement.
  

Dog dealers, wildlife dealers and auctions

• What to look for: Physical condition; overcrowding; selling endangered species without the required permit.
  
• Laws that apply: Animal Welfare Act; state anti-cruelty statutes; Endangered Species Act (if selling endangered species).
  
• Who inspects: USDA/APHIS; local law enforcement; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
  

Animal shelters

• What to look for: Conditions at shelter; method of euthanasia; adequate veterinary care; employee reliability and attitude.
  
• Laws that apply: State anti-cruelty statutes; local ordinances.
  
• Who inspects: County and state officials.
  

Pet stores

• What to look for: Sanitation; physical health; overcrowding; selling endangered species.
  
• Laws that apply: Animal Welfare Act (if selling wild animals); state anti-cruelty statutes; health regulations.
  
• Who inspects: USDA/APHIS (if selling wild animals); local law enforcement; state health department; state environment officials.