ANIMAL CRUELTY

The most common violations of Pennsylvania law pertaining to animal cruelty are located in subsection (c) of Title 18-Section 5511 which reads as follows:

(c) Cruelty to animals
A person commits a summary offense if he wantonly or cruelly ill-treats, overloads, beats, otherwise abuses any animal, or neglects any animal as to which he has a duty of care, whether belonging to himself or otherwise, or abandons any animal, or deprives any animal of necessary sustenance, drink, shelter or veterinary care, or access to clean and sanitary shelter which will protect the animal against inclement weather and preserve the animal's body heat and keep it dry. This subsection shall not apply to activity undertaken in normal agricultural operation.

The Humane Society of Lebanon County and the Courts of Lebanon County have appointed Humane Society Police Officers who are capable of enforcing and prosecuting violators of these laws. Keep in mind however that these laws are laws like any other and can be enforced by the police department if need be.

If you suspect someone of committing animal cruelty you are encouraged to contact us, e-mail and or submit the investigation form below so we may begin a thorough investigation into the matter.

*All information submitted will be kept confidential and given to the proper authorities

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