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During the exam, the animals should be photographed from multiple angles. Ideally, and especially with underweight animals, photographs should be taken from five angles (top, front, left side, right side, back). If conditions make it difficult to take all photographs in the field and/or if animals are fractious and cannot come out of a carrier, be sure to take at least two photographs for identification. Take any remaining photographs during the exams in the following days. Be sure to capture any injuries and/or signs of illness. The photographer should perform regular quality checks to ensure that both the animal and his/her corresponding intake information on the whiteboard are visible. The completed paperwork should be provided to the handler when he/she moves the animal to a designated vehicle. Transport Arranging for safe, humane, speciesspecific transport is an important part of every seizure. In order to maintain chain of custody, the driver must record the intake on the transport log before loading the animal (see Appendix IV for a sample). Paperwork must be secured to the carrier or cage, if applicable, or handed to the driver in the case of large animal transport. This paperwork must accompany the animal to the housing facility. Medical records should also be in triplicate in case the case lead requests a copy. If animals are being transported to various shelters, complete the Agreement from initiating to cooperating organization form to keep track of each animal’s whereabouts. Interviewing the subject and closing the warrant Process the subject at the sheriff’s department or police station per procedure. After reading the subject his/her constitutional rights, attempt to obtain a statement by asking the following questions: 66 The Humane Society of the United States • How many animals do you own or possess? • What is your reason for having so many animals? How did you acquire them? • Who helps you with the daily feeding, watering and cleaning duties? − If the subject indicates that he or she has employees or uses volunteers for such tasks, attempt to obtain their names and contact information for follow-up. • Where do you regularly buy feed, hay, dog food or cat food? Do you know how much you spend each month on feed/pet food? − Attempt to find out the name of the pet store or feed store to check records. • When was the last time the animals were fed and watered? • When was the last time the cages, stalls, barn or other holding areas were cleaned? • Are you aware of any animals requiring veterinary attention? • When was the last time the animals were seen by a veterinarian? − If the defendant indicates that any or all of the animals are under the care of a veterinarian, ask for the veterinarian’s name to check the claim. • In the case of horses, sheep and goats, when was the last time they were seen by a farrier? • Do you ever breed your animals or buy from others? • Do you ever sell or adopt out animals to others? Keep in mind that a lack of sufficient funds is not a legitimate excuse for neglecting an animal, and neglect constitutes cruelty. During the arraignment—which may occur while teams are still on the property—consider asking the judge to order the defendant not to return to the property while the animals are being examined and removed. Executing a large-scale seizure


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