Question
Can the veterinarian report this to the humane society and can the humane society forcibly take custody of her dog and not give it back?
Answer
California law provides that when a veterinarian has reasonable cause to believe an animal under his/her care has been “a victim of animal abuse or cruelty,” the veterinarian shall “promptly report it to the appropriate law enforcement authorities of the county, city, or city and county in which it occurred.” Many other states have similar laws. Law enforcement authorities have the authority to take possession of these animals, and the alleged perpetrator of the mistreatment may be charged with violating the state’s animal cruelty law.
California law provides that persons convicted of violating the state’s animal cruelty law shall forfeit the animals who were the subject of the conviction. People who are convicted of cruelty to animals may be fined and imprisoned too. There are also provisions in the law allowing the seizing agency or prosecuting attorney to file a petition seeking forfeiture of a dog or cat prior to the court deciding the criminal case.
I hope the dog is doing well now.
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