What action must be taken if a veterinary practitioner suspects abuse or neglect?

When a veterinary practitioner suspects abuse or neglect, the appropriate action is to notify law enforcement. This is essential because abuse and neglect of animals can be criminal offenses, warranting investigation by authorities. By reporting the suspected abuse, the practitioner helps ensure that the situation is assessed and, if necessary, that legal action can be taken to protect the animal involved.

Taking no action could lead to further harm to the animal and prevents necessary intervention. Contacting the animal's owner may not be advisable, especially if the owner is suspected of being the abuser or neglecting the animal, as this could compromise the investigation or alert the owner to any evidence being gathered. Simply documenting the situation, while important for record-keeping, is not sufficient on its own, as it does not initiate any action to protect the animal. Reporting to law enforcement is a proactive and responsible step in such cases.