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 Vermont, animal cruelty is addressed under Vermont Statutes Title 13, Chapter 8, which defines various forms of cruelty and establishes penalties for such offenses. The law prohibits acts of cruelty such as overworking, beating, tormenting, or otherwise abusing an animal. It also makes it illegal to deprive an animal of adequate food, water, shelter, rest, sanitation, or necessary medical attention. In cases of severe cruelty, such as torturing, maiming, or mutilating an animal, the penalties are more severe and may include imprisonment. Vermont law also requires that veterinarians report suspected animal cruelty. The state takes animal welfare seriously, and law enforcement agencies are empowered to investigate and prosecute cases of animal cruelty. Additionally, Vermont has established an Animal Cruelty Investigation Advisory Board to assist with the development and coordination of policies and procedures related to animal cruelty investigations.