Reporting Suspected Animal Neglect, Cruelty, or Abuse

Veterinarians licensed in the state of Minnesota are mandated reporters of suspected animal abuse, neglect or cruelty by MN statute.  However, they are not protected from civil or criminal lawsuits for in good faith reporting as of 1/1/2020.

Reporting animal abuse, neglect and cruelty is an important part of being a veterinarian who by default is the hub of animal welfare within their communities.

• Remember the veterinarian is a health care professional documenting what you examine and experience in your interaction with animals and their owners, (not being prosecutor or defense attorney, or jury, or judge.  Our job is to collect evidence and describe what you see on exam and conclusions based on the facts, and your “in good faith” conclusions based on your professional knowledge as a veterinarian.
• Veterinarians are often confused about the who, what, why, when, where and how to report
• The guides and information you find in these chapters will help guide you.