Question
My neighbors have 4 dogs in a one-bedroom apartment and are hardly home. They have been gone for over 48 hours now and kennel all 4 dogs in one kennel that is too small for even one of them. The police can't help, since the owners are gone.
Iowa, USA
Answer
People who suspect that animals are being neglected or abused should contact the police, animal control, local SPCA (society for the prevention of cruelty to animals), and humane societies. Also try the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, 515-284-6905. The police and other law enforcement officers can attempt to get a search warrant if there is evidence of a violation of Iowa’s animal cruelty law. This is standard practice, particularly when animals are neglected or abandoned and left to fend for themselves.
PLEASE NOTE: Responses to legal inquiries are not meant to replace seeking legal advice from an attorney in your state. The materials in this website and any responses to questions are for informational purposes only and are not intended, nor should they be construed, as legal advice. This website, the information contained herein, and any responses to questions directed to this column are not intended to create and do not establish an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely or act upon any information provided on this website or in any response to your inquiry without seeking the advice of an attorney in your state regarding the facts of your specific situation.
Send Your Pet Legal Question Now!
Elinor will field as many questions as she can and they will be posted here on this site. Due to the volume of questions received, not all questions are answered. However, many individuals have similar questions. You may find helpful information in the categories listed below.