PETITION TARGET: Delaware Lawmakers
A frightened dog limps into a veterinary exam room with untreated wounds. A cat arrives weak from neglect. An animal’s body may tell a heartbreaking story of suffering behind closed doors, and veterinarians are often among the first people able to see the warning signs before an animal in need is sent back into danger.
Delaware House Bill 415 would require veterinarians to report suspected animal abuse or neglect to the Office of Animal Welfare or another appropriate reporting authority for investigation. According to WDEL, Delaware law currently does not require veterinarians to make these reports, though they may do so voluntarily.
The bill would also require veterinarians to complete training every two years on recognizing and reporting suspected cruelty, protect good faith reports from civil or criminal liability and professional discipline, and allow the Delaware Board of Veterinary Medicine to discipline veterinarians who fail to comply.
Animals suffering abuse or neglect need every possible protection. When trained veterinary professionals spot signs of cruelty, the law should make reporting clear, required, and protected.
Sign our petition urging Delaware lawmakers to swiftly advance and pass this important legislation to help ensure suspected animal cruelty is reported, investigated, and stopped before more animals suffer.
