In California, it is illegal to:
- Organized dog fighting
- Tether a dog to a stationary object for more than three hours.
- Leave pets unattended for extended periods of time: in vehicles in extreme weather; or without food and water.
- Maliciously and intentionally maim, mutilate, beat, torture, torment, wound, or kill an animal or overdrive, overload, or overwork animals.
- Deprive animals of necessary sustenance, access to water, shelter, veterinarian care, and adequate exercise.
- Poison animals belonging to another person.
- Abandon an animal.
- Fail to provide proper care for animals in pet shops.
- Cruelly transport animals in a vehicle.
If you see or encounter instances of animal abuse, report it to 311 Connect or if calling outside of unincorporated Sacramento County Areas, dial, 916-875-4311. Please get as much information as possible to report to the dispatcher.
Reporting Cock-fighting:
There are several major issues associated with illegal cock-fighting events, including property destruction, gambling, drug dealing and animal cruelty, among others. It is important to report cock-fighting activities so County officials can investigate these cases. Learn more about cock-fighting.
