Animal cruelty! What can I really do about this?

I'm living at my grandparents right now and my grandfather hates my dog and he keeps tying her up on short chains giving her no more than 2 feet to move around with. He also puts her in the easiest places that she can get caught and possibly strangle herself. She's used to having a whole backyard to run free in and I'm sure he dragged her by her neck to chain her up. I keep taking her off the chain and he goes behind my back and ties her up again and it's getting worse and worse. He doesn't even have the courtesy to bring her food and water to her when he moves her and it's really starting to piss me off and I need to report it.

My dog's name is Lacy and she's a mixed breed black lab and boxer. Please help me save her from my evil senile grandfather and help me find someone I can call to report this crazy man's violence towards her.

And I would love to know the consequences towards him when I DO turn him in.

Thanks :)

2010-11-06T22:07:22Z

chicken butt, i'm living in his house so i'll be the one getting kicked out if i chew him, which is very hard not to do.

jenny, that's exaclty my plan, but i need to know who to call about it.

2010-11-06T22:09:06Z

i'm not a minor, he does NOT have custody over me, and i'm working during the day while he does this and i don't have a camera to try to catch him. i just need a number or name of organization, people. thanks.

2010-11-06T22:11:19Z

i am moving soon. everyone stio criticizing me and help. i obviously do love my dog. i am asking this question. i'm moving in 2 weeks but i want to report him.

2010-11-06T22:22:56Z

even if he only gets fined, i'll have some victory because he gambles and has no money to pay for fines.

2010-11-06T22:29:41Z

thanks everyone for the great and quick answers! my grandfather doesn't do talking well. he would try to turn this on me and would walk away from the conversation, so that's not an option. i will look more into all of your great answers and save my baby Lacy from the mean man. thanks again. you're all wonderful!

2010-11-06T22:49:33Z

Scarlett, no. the yard is completely fenced in, and theres no trash or anything for her to be getting into. I know my dog and I know my grandfather. She's a calm dog and he's an old grumpy tard. lol

2010-11-06T22:50:55Z

And Brian, you suck.

Brian2010-11-06T22:24:51Z

Favorite Answer

What he is doing does not fall into animal cruelty unless he is beating or causing physical pain while he chains up your dog. Moving your dog by the collar (neck) is also not animal cruelty. Securing a dog in a small area for portions of the day, while maybe unpleasant and not desired, is not harmful.

The best solution is for you to give your grandfather a solution instead of him coming up with his own. Make a small enclosed area for your dog to be put when he wants to secure her. You place food/water in there.

You cannot expect another person (even family) to provide the same care you do for your dog. You need to find a way to care for your dog even when you are not there.

Edit: Apparently I suck because I checked the described actions against the law and I advocated personal responsibility for the dog.

Nicole2010-11-06T22:12:35Z

Sadly, animal cruelty laws really aren't that severe and there probably has to be more proof of abuse or neglect on your grandfather's part to even have it taken to court. If you do someone manage to prove that he his abusing your poor dog, he'll most likely only be fined. I think it's pretty rare to do any jail time. The best thing I can suggest is that 1.) you talk to your grandfather and be firm about him not touching your pet anymore and 2.) talk to your local animal shelter to see if they have any suggestions. If that doesn't work, maybe you can find a friend who can take Lacy until you can find a better situation for you both. I'm sorry that you're dealing with this. I can't imagine how angry you must feel watching someone abuse something you obviously care very much about. Good luck.

?2010-11-06T22:18:35Z

The red flag in your mind is there for a reason. And you are right to do something about it. People are crazy, turning a blind eye isnt going to help this defenseless animal. I know we cant save them all but this is one less dog left to suffer. The behavior your grandfather to showing without question is animal abuse. So now what to do....because you have to do something.
What I would do is call my local animal control. Thier job is to prosecute cases of animal cruely. Fines can range anywhere from $200-$2000 in most areas. This call can remain totally anonymous.
If your not looking to go that far however, you can also try just talking to your grandfather. who it sounds like prob wont understand but try, show him the facts show him what his behavior can result in. Maybe try secretly giving the dog away, advertise a free dog anywhere you can. Just know theres help out there. If you are just at wits end. try calling your local humane society and see what they recommend. but dont turn a blind eye

?2010-11-06T22:15:25Z

Obviously your grandfather isn't to keen on dogs. What he is doing would be considered as abuse. Have you ever asked him why he is treating the dog so badly? If he hasn't any explanation for his bad behavior, and he continues treating the dog like this, you can contact SPCA or PETA and tell them what is happening. What they will do is restrict him from any kind of contact with the dog. The dog will become your responsibility since she is your dog. I agree with you, what he is doing to the dog is cruel and should be stopped immediately. I don't know where you live at, but there should be some kind of animal protection agency in your neighborhood. Protect your dog sweetheart as it depends on you for just that. I'd love to have a talk with your granddad. I have a very bad dislike for people who mistreat dogs. It is uncalled for. I hope that I have been of some help to you, and especially the dog.

Everett

scarlett2010-11-06T22:25:24Z

Although I don't agree with Grampa's techniques, I wonder if he keeps chaining him up to keep him at home; maybe he's getting in the neighbor's trash, chasing their chickens or cats, peeing on some lady's flowers...who knows what he's up to when you are away.

Take him to boarding school or doggie daycare during the day, at least that way you won't have to worry about him while you are at work. Alternatively, find a dog sitter.

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