Investigating Animal Cruelty 19 Common complaints This section provides you with some common situations you might encounter when investigating animal cruelty complaints. Each scenario is followed by a recommended course of action. CAVEAT: The recommendations provided in each of the following scenarios should not be construed as providing legal advice. Every case is different. Your actions may vary according to the circumstances involved, your agency’s policy and interpretation of applicable laws by your DA. Scenario 1: An animal in a hot car It’s a hot day. You respond to a call about a dog in a hot car in a parking lot. When you arrive on the scene, you observe several concerned citizens standing around the car. One of the individuals says that she called the police. The car’s doors are locked and the windows are rolled up. You can see that the dog is exhibiting signs of heatstroke and is in danger of death. Signs of heat-related illness/heatstroke: • Heavy panting, excessive drooling, glazed eyes, rapid pulse, unsteadiness/ staggering, bloody vomit, bloody diarrhea or nose bleed, dry, deep red or purple tongue, hemorrhages in the gums or under skin, coma/death. • A temperature over 104˚F. What to do In this scenario, the recommended action is to enter the car, remove and secure the dog and provide whatever assistance is needed. This is a situation involving exigent circumstances. You recognize the symptoms of heatstroke and you understand that it can be fatal for pets as well as people. Notify animal control and contact a veterinarian immediately. If you believe the animal may be suffering from heatstroke, seek veterinary care as soon as possible, even if the dog appears to be improving. While waiting for a veterinarian: • Move the dog to a cooler area. • Gradually lower his body temperature by applying cool (not cold) water all over his body or soaking him in a cool bath. • Place cool, wet towels over the back of the neck and in the armpits, paws, ear flaps and groin area. • Direct a fan on the wet areas to speed evaporative cooling. • Offer fresh, cool water if the dog is alert and wants to drink. Do not force him to drink. Investigatory tips: • Take the animal’s temperature at the time of contact. • Document it with written notes and a photograph. Common complaints
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