Our pets rely on us to take good care of them and provide them with needed veterinary services, food, water, and shelter. If you witness animal neglect or cruelty, report it to  the Animal Care Services at 361-826-4630 or the Customer Call Center by calling 3-1-1. 

What is Animal Cruelty?

Generally, animal cruelty can be divided into two categories: neglect and intentional cruelty.

Neglect is the failure to provide an animal with the basic of requirements of food, water, shelter and veterinary care, and is often unintentional and the result of lack of understanding or pet-owner-education. These concerns can usually be resolved through education and counseling the pet owner.

Intentional cruelty occurs when an individual purposely inflicts physical harm, pain or injury on an animal.

Animal owners and caretakers, under local and state law, must provide nutritious food, adequate water; dry shelter with protection from the elements; and proper veterinary care from a licensed professional as needed. 

Causing an animal to fight another, intentionally harming or abandoning an animal is illegal. If you suspect or know of an animal being abused or used for fighting or “blood sports,” please call (361) 826-4630 or 3-1-1 or make a report online. If the violation is occurring in your presence call 911.

How can I spot animal cruelty?

You may be a witness to cruelty if you see an animal that:

• Is repeatedly left without food and water
• Kept outside without shelter in extreme temperatures (under 32 degrees / over 100 degrees)
• Abandoned
• Has untreated wounds or severe hair loss on its body
• Is extremely thin and appears emaciated
• Is physically abused 
• Is provoked into fighting another animal