What do I do if I witness abuse or neglect?

1)This may sound obvious, but be sure it fits the legal definition of cruelty. Sometimes the law is very loose about what they consider abuse/neglect. Sadly there isn't much anyone can do if the law allows that kind of treatment.

One approach if the law doesn't fit this criteria, is to be really nice to the person. Try to educate them tactfully. If they're struggling because they can't find a reliable farrier, it would help the horse to help them find this information. If they're cooperative, they'll be far more willing to change, sell the horse to you at a very reasonable price, or outright donate the horse somewhere.

In Maryland you can review the Minimum Standards of Care guidelines.

Check your own state and local laws.

2) Call Animal Control. In many areas, Animal Control works out of the county/regional SPCA office.

Be factual, not emotional, no matter how upsetting the event was. Be clear on what you saw. Give them as much information as possible: a full street address and/or names of those involved.

Understand that some Animal Control offices don't have the funding to have an equine specialist on staff. Tactfully explain why it's not acceptable when a horse is _____ or has ______ issue. Speak from a position of facts, not emotion.

Document any abuse. Be sure to write down any dates, times, and events.

Be sure any photos are taken from the street -- no trespassing.

Do not threaten or harass the owner, even if he/she is taking terrible care of the animals. Trespassing and aggressive behavior on your part may hurt the court case.

3) Allow the authorities time to investigate. They may have to allow the owner a day or two to get a vet out. Do not take out your frustrations on Animal Control.

Equihab works hard to end neglect & abuse, but we do not have any legal authority to seize a horse.

Contact us and we can try to advise you how to get Animal Control to listen.

If you know the owner and can approach him the right way, suggest he donates the horse to Equihab or another equine rescue. Many times neglect is caused by not knowing any better and/or a person getting in over their head. A Rescue organization is here to help.

If the incident is in Cecil County, Maryland, we'll be happy to go take a look & take our own photos. We're happy to testify in court if need be.