Adoption and Rescue Information > SPCA Interview > Part 5 - Nervous or not sure about reporting?
This is Part 5 of my interview with Beth Brookhouser, Director of Community Outreach for the SPCA for Monterey County in California. In this interview, get some tips if you suspect animal neglect or abuse but are afraid to report a friend, relative or neighbor.Question: Any special tips for people who are afraid to report abuse (i.e. suspecting a neighbor or family member who may be difficult) or want to be totally anonymous?
Beth's Answer: Reporting a friend or relative for animal neglect or abuse can be very difficult. Many cases are not reported for this reason.
It is our policy to never divulge the name of the reporting party, even if asked. If cases are submitted for prosecution, a reporting party wishing to remain anonymous can, in many cases be designated as a "Confidential Informant," which further protects their identity.
Our goal is to make it as easy as possible for animal neglect to be reported and resolved as quickly as possible. Therefore every report we receive in Monterey County – in person, by phone, or online – is kept confidential.
My comment: Please call or email your local animal humane officers to discuss your concerns about reporting. You can easily do this anonymously if you wish. Their goal is to help animals, and they understand that reporting is sometimes tricky. They will work with you to provide help for the animals and respect your concerns, too.
Photo: SPCA Humane officer Lieutenant Scheid with a rescued puppy. Photo © SPCA of Monterey County.
You can find Beth on Twitter here @bbrookhouser and here @animalrescuers.
Thank you, Beth for doing this interview. Part six of this interview is a photo gallery of memorable cases that the Monterey County SPCA has worked on over the years (Coming soon).
Adoption and Rescue Information > SPCA Interview > Part 5 - Nervous or not sure about reporting?
