Animal cruelty includes a wide range of behaviors that are mistreatment of animals—from neglect (depriving an animal of food, water, shelter, or veterinary care) to torturing, maiming, mutilating, and killing animals. Animal cruelty laws vary from state to state, and are usually included in a state’s statutes.
In Virginia, animal cruelty is addressed under the Virginia Code, specifically in sections dealing with Crimes Involving Animals. The law defines animal cruelty as any act that causes unnecessary suffering or injury to an animal, including abandonment, neglect (such as failing to provide adequate food, water, shelter, or necessary veterinary care), as well as acts of violence like beating, maiming, or killing an animal. Virginia law distinguishes between misdemeanor animal cruelty and felony animal cruelty, with the latter typically involving more deliberate and severe harm. Felony charges may apply in cases of torture, dogfighting, or causing the death of an animal through malicious acts. Additionally, Virginia has laws that require veterinarians to report suspected animal cruelty and provide protections for those who report animal cruelty in good faith.