It is unfortunate that some animals suffer at the hands of irresponsible owners. A lack of patience, lack of resources and a lack of basic pet care knowledge may contribute to the problem of animal cruelty. Whatever the cause of cruelty may be, a visit to a local pound or animal shelter will quickly illustrate the desperate plight of abused and forgotten pets. Pets can be frustrating, but even the most unruly pet deserves kindness and proper care.
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Neglect
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Animal cruelty can take many forms, including neglect and physical abuse. Neglect is a failure to meet basic needs. Some animals are not provided with enough food and water to sustain an acceptable weight and healthy condition. Other provisions a neglected animal may go without include adequate shelter, protection from the elements, proper exercise and spacious living quarters.
Abuse
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Physical abuse includes actions such as hitting, kicking or otherwise purposefully causing physical pain or injury. This is the type of abuse that may be borne out of frustration and failure of self-control. Those without the patience to difficult animals with kindness should not be in a position of caring for these often-frustrating creatures.
Considerations
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Consider adopting your next companion pet from a shelter. Over-breeding of pets as well as unethical breeding contributes to instances of homeless and neglected pets. Puppy mills are commercial breeding operations run with an emphasis on profits over healthy dogs. According to the ASPCA, some common problems occurring in dogs bred in puppy mills include genetic diseases, blood disorders and communicable diseases. Consider adopting a dog from an animal rescue or dog pound or purchasing from a reputable breeder when looking for a canine companion. The American Kennel Club provides a list of reputable breeders for almost any breed.
Prevention/Solution
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The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) offers suggestions for recognizing animal abuse. If the animal's collar is too tight, skin is in poor condition or body weight is well below normal for the breed, there is a chance that these conditions indicate neglect. The ASPCA also recommends taking the animal's environment into consideration when abuse is suspected. Very small or dirty enclosures may constitute animal cruelty. Report suspected animal cruelty to local authorities such as police and humane societies. Animal cruelty is illegal in every state.
Education is important to the prevention of animal abuse. Sometimes abuse and neglect are the result of ignorance of an animal's needs. Encourage schools and local animal rescues to make an effort to educate the public about the plight of poorly treated animals.
Theories/Speculation
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According to the United States Department of Justice, there is a correlation between animal cruelty and other delinquent behaviors including violence toward people. Animal abuse in juveniles may be symptomatic of a psychological disorder known as conduct disorder.
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