Definition of animal abuse

The definition of “animal abuse” varies from state to state and while most people have some idea of what this means, we investigate complaints of abuse or cruelty under Florida State Statute, 828.12, Cruelty to Animals. This statute defines felony cruelty as:

(2) A person who intentionally commits an act to any animal, or a person who owns or has the custody or control of any animal and fails to act, which results in the cruel death, or excessive or repeated infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering, or causes the same to be done, commits aggravated animal cruelty, a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or by a fine of not more than $10,000, or both.

The above does include animal hoarding.

Examples of animal abuse

Examples of felony animal cruelty under this section of the statute could include many intentional acts such as but not limited to:

► beating

► fighting

► burning

► drowning

It is important to note this section also includes:

► “failure to act” that results in the cruel death or excessive and repeated infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering.

Real life cases

► A dog is hit by a car and the owner does not take the pet to the veterinarian. The animal is injured as he is not able to walk. Allowing that pet to suffer in pain by “failing” to provide veterinary care, would most likely be considered felony animal cruelty in Florida.

► Failure to provide necessary food and allowing an animal to starve. The owner’s “failure to act” results in the animal suffering malnutrition and ultimately death. The animal does not have to die for this to be considered felony animal cruelty.

In Osceola County

We are the voice for animals and their owners in our jurisdiction. We have two primary functions:

► working to ensure public safety as it relates to animals and

► improving the welfare of animals in Osceola County.

What we do

Our first step is usually to educate animal owners.  Our Animal Control Officers can help citizens keep their pets by informing them of best practices in the care and feeding of their animals.

Enforcement

Sometimes, enforcement of county policies and rules becomes necessary through the legal system. This may include:

► fines, issued through Animal Services, or

► arrest and incarceration by the local police or Sheriff’s department

Reports of abuse and/or neglect, including animal hoarding, are investigated by our ACO (Animal Control Officer) staff as well as the shelter administration. Additionally, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office or the Kissimmee or St Cloud Police Departments as well as the State Attorney’s Office may be involved in the investigation and prosecution of certain abuse and neglect cases, especially animal fighting. Our Animal Control Officers do not make arrests.

Those found guilty in Osceola County court of animal criminal abuse and/or neglect are placed on Osceola County’s Animal Abuse registry, which is available on our website as well as the County Clerk’s web page, to all adoption agencies and citizens.

Linking human & animal abuse

Violence towards animals often escalates to violence towards people.