Veterinary needs for animal cruelty recognition and response in the United States center on training and workplace policies

Abstract

OBJECTIVE To better understand the experiences and perceptions of veterinary professionals in the US responding to suspected cases of animal cruelty. SAMPLE 1,027 US veterinary professionals. PROCEDURES An anonymous survey was distributed via social media and veterinary professional associations between October 15 and November 15, 2020. RESULTS Responses indicated that more cases of suspected animal cruelty were seen by those who reported having had cruelty training and in workplaces with emergency intake or a relationship with law enforcement. In addition, suspected cases were more likely to be reported to authorities by respondents who indicated there was a workplace policy for handling cruelty cases and by individuals who indicated that they were aware that they were mandated reporters. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The important needs for veterinary professionals in relation to animal cruelty are more training to recognize animal cruelty, workplace policies for reporting, and knowledge of reporting laws.