How to Sue for Animal Abuse: A Legal Guide for New Yorkers

Animal abuse isn't just immoral. It's illegal. But far too often, offenders walk away with a slap on the wrist or no consequences at all. At LAW, we’re working to change that. And we want New Yorkers to understand: you can take legal action when an animal is harmed.

Here’s how.

Criminal vs. Civil: What’s the difference?

Criminal cases are brought by the State. If someone witnesses abuse, they report it to law enforcement, and the District Attorney decides whether to prosecute.

Civil cases are filed by individuals or groups. If your animal was harmed by a groomer, vet, shelter, neighbor, or boarding facility, you may have grounds to sue.

In criminal court, the goal is punishment. In civil court, the goal is compensation and sometimes injunctive relief (like stopping someone from owning animals again).

When can you sue?

  • Your pet was injured or killed due to negligence or abuse (e.g. vet malpractice, toxic grooming products, violent handler).

  • You adopted an animal under false pretenses (e.g. “rescue” sold you a sick or unvaccinated dog).

  • An individual or facility failed in their duty of care, causing harm (e.g. boarding kennel neglect).

  • Your animal was wrongfully seized or euthanized.

What makes these cases hard?

Animals are still legally considered property in New York.

That limits recovery in many cases to the animal’s “market value.”

However, emotional distress and punitive damages may apply depending on the circumstances.

Expert testimony, often from vets or behavioral professionals, is usually required.

What LAW does differently:

  • We don’t just file. We strategically build cases around precedent, public pressure, and legislative gaps.

  • We incorporate media attention when it strengthens the legal position.

  • We coordinate with criminal prosecutors when civil action uncovers new evidence.

  • We partner with private attorneys to maximize damages and long-term impact.

If your animal has been harmed, don’t assume nothing can be done. Collect your records. Take photos. Document communication. Then contact us. LAW can review the facts and help you decide whether you have a case and how to fight it.

Previous
Previous

Want to Help? How Lawyers Can Join the Fight for Animal Welfare

Next
Next

Hot Enough to Kill: The Legal Risk of Leaving Animals in Dangerous Summer Conditions